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Dr. Goldenberg discusses the treatment of genital warts on It’s Your Health Network
Genital warts are a type of sexually transmitted disease caused by certain strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV has received much attention in scientific and medical communities in recent years, in part due to its association with cervical cancer and the development of a new vaccine to prevent certain types of HPV. Genital warts do not cause cervical cancer, but the presence of the virus must be taken very seriously. This article describes genital warts and discusses the causes, symptoms, and treatment options of this virus.
Genital warts are caused by the HPV virus and spread through sexual contact with an infected individual. HPV is actually a family of over 150 different strains of viruses, but the majority of genital warts are caused by two strains of the virus (type 6 and 11). Genital warts are spread through skin-to-skin contact, thus condoms alone will not prevent its transmission, making it a difficult STD to prevent. After exposure through sexual contact, symptoms can take up to one year to develop, which means that an infected individual can continue to spread the virus before they realize they have it. Additionally, it is estimated that a low percentage of the population actually develops symptoms of genital warts, even if they are carrying the HPV virus in their bodies. This asymptomatic presence further contributes to the spread of the virus. These factors contribute to the high prevalence of the HPV virus among the human population (doctors estimate that 25 to 40% of the population carry some strain of HPV).
The HPV virus targets the epithelial tissue, which is found on the skin and in the lining of many of the body’s cavities. As such, forms of HPV can occur on nearly every part of the body. Genital warts are named as such since they commonly occur in the genital regions and are spread by sexual contact. Genital warts most typically appear on the penis, scrotum, vagina, vulva, cervix, anus, perianal area, and the mouth. When genital warts occur in women, the first symptom is usually the appearance or sensation of small, gritty-like lumps that become larger over time. In men, the warts usually look similar to the warts that form on a person’s hands. The lumps are usually flesh colored, and range in size. Some people experience clusters of small bumps, while others have only one or two growths. It is important to visit a doctor if you suspect you have genital warts, as they can be difficult to diagnosis by sight alone. Diagnosis is important so that you can receive effective treatment and stop the spread of the virus to other partners.
Although genital warts and their prevalence in our population may seem frightening, they are rarely painful or result in severe medical complications. While a very small percentage of people may experience difficulty in urinating or bleeding during intercourse, most people notice only a change in their skin’s topography. Treatment, however, is very important to prevent further spread and to remove the virus from your skin. In New York, Dr. Gary Goldenberg offers several treatment options to his patients. Treatment for genital warts includes removal by electrocautery or surgical excision. Cryosurgery, the most commonly used treatment option, essentially freezes the wart so it will die and fall from the skin. Dr. Goldenberg may use a variety of other pharmaceuticals or chemicals to treat and/or remove the warts. The may include Imiquimod, Veregen, Podophyllin and podofilox (Condylox) or Trichloroacetic acid (TCA). With adequate medical intervention, genital warts can be successfully treated and the patient’s skin will return to its normal appearance and texture.
If Dr. Goldenberg chooses to perform a biopsy, he will send the tissue for HPV testing. Dr. Goldenberg’s laboratory performs In situ hybridization to rule out high risk HPV types (i.e., those that can lead to cervical, vulvar, penile and anal cancer). Due to his dual Board Certifications, Dr. Goldenberg is an expert in interpreting HPV test results.
It is important to consider the qualifications and skill of the doctor treating your genital warts, as they will be dealing with a very delicate and sensitive part of your body. Your privacy is of utmost importance to Dr. Goldenberg. Additionally, genital warts may require several rounds of treatment, so a thorough and consistent doctor is a must. Dr. Goldenberg is an expert at diagnosing and treating genital warts, and should be a first choice of patients in the NYC area.
Dr. Goldenberg discusses cosmetic procedures for men on IT’S YOUR HEALTH NETWORK
Dr. Gary Goldenberg talks about men’s beauty tips like:
-When men have acne, what are their treatment options?
Dr. Goldenberg Helps Ring the Opening Bell at NASDAQ and Discusses The Improtance of Skin Cancer Prevention and Early Detection
“We’re here today to highlight the importance of skin exams as a critical part of an overall commitment to skin cancer prevention,” said Dr. Joseph Gulfo, President and CEO of MELA Sciences, Inc. “We are proud that our advanced melanoma detection technology is helping dermatologists nationwide address this public health crisis.”
One American dies every hour from melanoma, the most deadly skin cancer. MELA Sciences, Inc. is the pioneer company behind MelaFind®, the first and only FDA-approved diagnostic tool that helps dermatologists detect melanoma at its most curable stage. MelaFind® was approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) in Fall 2011, and since then has strategically rolled out the technology to dermatology practices across the country.
Joining Dr. Gulfo in the Opening Bell ceremony were Gary Goldenberg, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology and Pathology at The Mount Sinai School of Medicine, NY; Mark S. Nestor, MD, PhD, Voluntary Associate Professor of the Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery at the University Of Miami Leonard Miller School Of Medicine, and the Director of the Center for Cosmetic Enhancement and the Center for Clinical and Cosmetic Research in Aventura, Florida; and Claudia Beqaj, Director of Commercialization, MELA Sciences, Inc.
“Prevention and early detection are the most effective ways to fight the melanoma epidemic,” said Dr. Goldenberg. “Broad-spectrum sunscreens and safe sun practices are the first line of defense, along with regular skin exams. Once patients are in the office, advanced tools like MelaFind® and dermoscopy help us better evaluate atypical moles to selectively determine which may need to be biopsied.”
“Melanoma detection starts with the patient,” said Dr. Nestor. “A simple 5 minute skin exam can be the difference between life and death. So, we encourage patients to call their dermatologists and schedule an annual skin exam today.”
MELA Sciences, Inc. also hosted skin cancer exams for NASDAQ employees and media at the NASDAQ event. MelaFind® devices were available onsite and used by dermatologists to evaluate unusual moles. The hand-held tool is fast and painless, using multiple wavelengths of light to provide valuable data about how a mole is growing under the skin – in less than a minute.
MELA Sciences, Inc. recently worked with dermatologists across the country to sponsor free MelaFind® exams on May 1, the first day of National Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection & Prevention Month™. Hundreds of patients were evaluated at over 58 offices.
According to Ms. Beqaj, the time is right to educate Americans about the urgency of skin cancer exams. A recent Harris survey commissioned by MELA Sciences, Inc. found that less than one in four Americans (23%) visit a dermatologist for an annual skin examination.
“We are investing our resources to build awareness around the importance of annual skin cancer exams, working in partnership with dermatologists to change behaviors in their patient communities,” she said. “Our hope is that one day skin exams will be as common as dental visits and annual physicals, and, as a result, we’ll see the melanoma crisis subside in our lifetime.”
Restylane for dark cirlces and under eye hollows can improve your appearance
Restylane is a dermal fillers that are fashioned from hyaluronic acid and contain lidocaine, a local anesthetic. Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in the body and provides volume and fullness to the skin. Injectable hyaluronic acid has been modified to allow for a greater longevity than that found in the skin. It is a safe compound that is degraded gradually by the body over time. The duration of effect from the hyaluronic acid fillers ranges from six months to one year in most cases. Restylane can be used in many locations, including the nasolabial folds, cheeks, tear troughs, lips, and marionette lines.
The 2 patients below were treated with a single Restylane injection into the lower eyelid tear trough to improve under eye hollows and dark circle.
Dr. Goldenberg Discusses Results of His Study with Dr. Max Gomez on CBS New York
Dr. Goldenberg Discusses Results of His Study with Dr. Max Gomez on CBS New York
Eczema is adults usually manifests as hand and foot dermatitis. Dr. Goldenberg recently completed a study on the subject. The study showed that about half of adults with hand and foot eczema were colonized with a bacteria known as Staphylococcus aureus (staph). Treating the staph bacteria along with eczema improved the patients’ outcome more than just treating eczema alone.
Dr. Goldenberg discussed Oxygen-infused makeup and skin care
Once upon a time, oxygen was used topically, to quicken the healing of burns. Pressurized oxygen is still used for this purpose in hospitals — it’s all built around the idea that an influx of healthy, stable oxygen increases skin cell metabolism.
“Skin suffering from too little oxygen can often become dull, wrinkled and virtually lifeless. Contrarily, studies suggest when skin is treated with oxygen, it becomes more vibrant, plump and youthful-looking. Keeping this in mind, Sonya Dakar Skincare has developed an Oxygen Eye Cream that is O2 infused and works to revive damaged tissue, increase cellular turnover and soothe symptoms of tired or aging under eyes. The results are improved elasticity, greater collagen production and an overall more bright-eyed appearance,” says Sarah Dakar, Beauty Director of Sonya Dakar Skincare.
Pretty as a princess
Whatever Kate Middleton does is just fine by us, and it just so happens oxygen-infused skin care is one of her beauty secrets — this is a great option to try if you are looking for intense hydration without the heavy feeling of a cream.
“Many oxygen skin care creams are also packed with skin healing ingredients such as jojoba and vitamin E. I personally love these creams under makeup, since they keep the skin moisturized without a residue that most heavier creams leave behind. Try: Pevonia Oxygenating O2ptimal Dry Cream or Peter Thomas Roth Radiance Oxygen Mask!” says Christina Farrell of TheMakeupBlogger.com.
And one of our favorites out there is quite popular among the beauty editors who have tried ‘em all. “I’ve long been a fan of the Bliss Triple Oxygen Energizing Mask. I slather it on in my hotel room post long plane rides and it never ceases to brighten up my complexion and psychologically make me feel less jet-lagged,” says Amber Katz of BeautyBloggingJunkie.com.
Jeannine Morris of BeautySweetSpot.com concurs: “My favorite oxygen-infused skin care is an oldie but goodie from Bliss. Their Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask. It’s not just the skin care, but the experience that makes it one of my all around favorite face masks. Immediately upon applying, the mask begins to bubble and creates a cool, frothy-like texture (that looks like the top of a cappuccino), which instantly wakes up your skin.”
Dr. Gary Goldenberg of Goldenberg Dermatology shares the enthusiasm, to a degree. “Oxygen is an ingredient in more and more skin care products, such as moisturizers, serums, cosmetics and masks. These products, including the one I tried using, deliver dissolved oxygen to the skin. The hope is that oxygen will revitalize the epidermis, increase cellular turn over and help erase signs of aging.” Some also claim that oxygen can help with acne and rosacea by killing bacteria implicated in these conditions. Some spas also offer an oxygen mask at the end of your treatment. This delivers a high concentration of oxygen to your skin in order to increase the glow of your skin.
But does it work?
“From a purely scientific point of view, I am not convinced that a gaseous substance can be delivered in a cream form,” says Goldenberg. And surely, our skin is in constant contact with oxygen that’s in the air. And even if it’s true, that these products can deliver oxygen to the skin, what happens to it then is unclear. When we think about more oxygen being delivered to the skin, what we really mean to say is that the red blood cells that carry oxygen in our bodies can deliver more to our organs, the skin being the largest organ in the body. But to increase oxygenation that way, one would have to be in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber or increase the number of red blood cells in the body (blood doping, essentially). Not deliver oxygen topically.”
“Truth is that I am still a skeptic. Having said that, dissolved oxygen in your makeup, moisturizer, serum and spa treatment cannot do anything to harm your skin (your wallet may be a different story). So if you like the way the products feel, go ahead and use them. I know I will,” says Goldenberg.
Top Non-Invasive Cosmetic Procedures – Dr. Goldenberg on Certified Fabulous
There has been a revolution, of sorts, in non-invasive surgical procedures in the past decade. Patients no longer require to “go under the knife” to look younger and better. Due to this fact, more men and women are able to enjoy the benefits of cosmetic “surgery” without the surgery part.
Wrinkle relaxing agents:
Botox is by far the most common cosmetic procedure performed in the world. Dysport and Xeomin, 2 other products that are used for the same purpose, are also available. These procedures relax the muscles that cause wrinkles, giving the skin a smooth, wrinkle-free appearance. The ideal locations for these products are the glabella (area between your eyebrows), forehead, crows feet (wrinkles around your eyes), neck, and décolleté area.
Hyaluronic acid fillers:
Four hyaluronic acid fillers are used most commonly: Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm, and Belotero. Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in the body and provides volume and fullness to the skin. Injectable hyaluronic acid fillers simply replace the hyaluronic acid we lose over time. The duration of effect from the hyaluronic acid fillers ranges from six months to one year in most cases. These products also stimulate the body to make collagen over time, producing some longer lasting effect. These products are ideal for the lines around the mouth and nose (nasolabial and marionette lines), lips, cheeks, under eyes, chin and deep wrinkles of the forehead. These products are very safe and have been used in millions of patients.
Deep fillers:
Sculptra and Radiesse are the two most commonly used deep fillers. Sculptra is actually not a filler at all – it works by stimulating your body to produce natural collagen in your skin. Sculptra is composed of poly-L-lactic acid, which works to restore the collagen we lose as we age by stimulating colloagen production over time. The beauty of sculptra is that the changes in your appearance, while dramatic, occur over time and no one will know you had “work done.” They will just think you look great! Patients generally require 2-3 rounds of injections and the results last well over a year. Sculptra is ideal for volume replacement in the cheeks, temples, and areas around the mouth and chin. Radiesse is a more traditional filler, composed of calcium-based microspheres suspended in a water-based gel that will restore facial volume when injected into the skin. Radiesse is commonly used to replace the volume of the face. My personal favorite use of restylane is to replace the volume in the back of the hands.
Liquid facelift/Facial Contouring:
The combination of wrinkle relaxing agent, hyaluronic acid fillers and deep fillers, has been called “liquid facelift with facial contouring.” This is a non-invasive alternative to a surgical facelift. The goal of the procedure is to reduce appearance of wrinkles and lines, restore natural and more youthful facial contours, achieve a rested and less tired look, and to improve overall appearance.
As we age, our face loses what’s known as the fat pad. This loss produces sunken in or flat cheeks, hallows under eyes and in the temple area, jowls and deep wrinkles and lines, making one look tired and older. The goal of the liquid facelift is to restore a more youthful, natural facial contour by lifting jowls, restoring flattened and sunken in cheeks and temple areas, and lifting corners of mouth. The procedure can also help with reshaping and revolumizing of lips and the lines around the mouth, known as smoker’s lines. This is often combined with dysport and botox, as well facial peels and laser resurfacing. The procedure is done over time, allowing the patient to have a soft change, as opposed to a dramatic change with a surgical facelift. This allows more discretion that a procedure in which the patient must go under the knife.
Dr. Goldenberg discusses chemical peels on CUTIS blog
A study published in the International Journal of Dermatology (2011;50:1075-1082) evaluated skin rejuvenation effects of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and phenol peels in photoaged hairless mice. Photoaged skin exhibits deep coarse wrinkles, dryness, telangiectasia, skin atrophy, and hyperpigmentation. Three types of chemical peels are currently used: superficial type, penetrates and damages the papillary dermis (TCA 10%–30%); medium type, penetrates and damages the upper reticular dermis (TCA 50%); deep type, penetrates and damages the lower reticular dermis (phenol, Baker-Gordon peel formula). The mechanism by which peels improve photoaged properties of skin is not fully understood.
In this study, 18 mice were progressively photoaged with UVB light. The mice were than distributed into 5 groups: group 1 (n=4), TCA 30%; group 2 (n=4), TCA 50%; group 3 (n=3), phenol (Baker-Gordon peel formula, modified); group 4 (n=4), photoaged controls; and group 5 (n=3), non–UV-exposed controls. On days 7, 14, 28, and 60 after peeling, the mice underwent 4-mm punch biopsies. Although TCA 50% and phenol peels had more significant improvement than TCA 30% (P<.05), an increase in dermal thickness, collagen fibers, and elastic fibers was found in all peel groups compared to controls. These increases were maintained for 60 days.
What’s the issue?
Although dermatologists have been using chemical peels to treat fine wrinkles and lines, hyperpigmentation, and decreased skin elasticity for a long time, the exact mechanism of action is unknown. This study showed increased dermal thickness, collagen fibers, and elastic fibers on histologic evaluation, which in turn improves deep and coarse wrinkles as well as skin thickness. Although medium and deep peels (TCA 50% and phenol, respectively) improved these qualities more than a superficial peel (TCA 30%), I prefer superficial to medium-depth peels due to patient comfort and safety. Have you noticed a big difference in results between deep and medium peels?
Dr. Goldenberg discusses use of Argan Oil on FoxNews Magazine
Dr. Goldenberg discusses the use of Argan Oil on FoxNews Magazine:
Argan oil (the oil extracted from the fruit of Morocco’s argan tree) has been popping up in our shampoos, body butters and facial masks, with manufacturers pointing to its endless hydrating and healing properties.
But does argan oil live up to the hype?
“Argan oil has incredible conditioning and anti-aging properties that keep hair and skin revitalized,” says cosmetics expert Marla Malcolm Beck, the CEO and co-founder of Bluemercury.com. “It’s great for dry skin, does not clog pores, helps minimize fine lines, and can treat split ends.”
It can also be used to prevent stretch marks, she says, and even improve certain skin conditions. “Argan oil can help people with mild acne as the oleic acid found in the oil helps promote healthy levels of sebum production, and its linoleic acid helps prevent excess dead skin cells by promoting healthy skin turnover.”
Dermatologist Gary Goldenberg agrees — but only to a degree.
Goldenberg, who serves as an assistant professor of dermatology and pathology at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, notes that argan oil has long been thought to be a treatment for dermatitis and acne, “although studies for this are lacking,” he says.
“Tocopherols, or vitamin E, is likely the most beneficial ingredient in argan oil,” says Goldenberg, who adds that tocopherols are often used in cosmetics for “their presumed anti-oxidant effect.” But knowing this, he usually just recommends vitamin E itself as a moisturizer for patients with scars, eczema and dry scalp.
That’s not to say he disapproves of argan oil for those who want to try it. Goldenberg sees no harm in using the stuff, and even goes as far as to say, “I think it’s a safe product.” That’s definitely good news, especially for those who feel they might benefit from the plentiful argan-infused treatments flooding the cosmetics aisle.
Beck, however, warns against buying beauty products simply because they list argan oil on the label. “I would recommend that you make sure you’re purchasing what is right for your hair and body,” she urges.
For this very reason, Beck would recommend trying specifically tailored argan oil offerings — especially for hair. “Our clients love the Moroccanoil Treatment, which has three different formulas: light, color-treated and thick.” For dry, damaged or color-treated hair, she claims that Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil is a must-have (and it doesn’t hurt that her clients refer to it as “liquid gold”).
Argan oil skin treatments are also tailored to specific skin types, but Beck recommends two to start with: Laura Mercier’s Flawless Skin Repair Crème, which she says gets a boost of hydration from the inclusion of argan oil; and Darphin Nourishing Satin Oil, which Beck personally uses on her skin and arms before a night out. “You can instantly see the hydrating power, which transforms your skin,” she says of the Darphin oil. “And it smells amazing.”
Still, Goldenberg states that it’s hard to pinpoint which of these specific benefits is a direct result of argan oil and not vitamin E.
“I think it’s very important to understand that lots of claims are made without scientific data,” says Goldenberg of argan advocates. For example, Goldenberg says he’s familiar with one particular scientific study that likens argan oil products to placebos, and a few cosmeceutical studies in which there was no standard with which to measure the oil’s effects. “It’s much easier to show a benefit that way,” he warns.
The cosmetic effects of argan oil, then, should be left up to each individual consumer to determine after a reasonable period of use — or at least until the next “miracle oil” infiltrates the beauty aisle.
Dr. Goldenberg discusses Men’s Top Beauty Tips on RadioMD
Dr. Goldenberg discusses men’s top beauty trends:
1. Healthy skin is beautiful skin: it’s important to treat dermatologic conditions, such as acne or eczema, moisturize, and wear sunscreen.
2. Botox/Dysport/Xeomin work great for men. This is true for more mature patients that want to look a bit younger or younger patients who want to prevent wrinkles from coming.
3. Fillers, such as Restylane and Sculptra, work great for men who want to sculpt and shape their face, achieving a natural, masculine look.
4. Laser procedures, such as V-beam and Fraxel work great for male patients. These procedures help with wrinkles, lines, uneven pigmentation, and redness.
