Clarus Dermatology

05/01/2026

What if we told you 15 minutes could save your life? ⏱️☀️

May is Melanoma Awareness Month, and our message to you is simple: Skin checks save lives. Did you know that when detected early, the 5-year survival rate for melanoma is over 99%? That’s why your annual head-to-toe skin exam is one of the most important appointments you can make all year.

While we are always here to check your skin, you are your own first line of defense! Between visits, do a self-check at home and look out for the ABCDEs of Melanoma:

A - Asymmetry: One half of the spot doesn't match the other.

B - Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.

C - Color: The color is not the same all over and may include shades of brown, black, pink, red, or white.

D - Diameter: The spot is larger than a pencil eraser (though melanomas can sometimes be smaller).

E - Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, color, or elevation, or is bleeding/itching.

Don't leave your health to chance. If you have a spot that is new, changing, or just feels "off," it’s time to see us.

04/28/2026

Baby Sun Protection
I had a child this past year, so I’m trying to practice what I preach when it comes to sun protection, especially for babies. Battling my little one to keep her hat on is always a challenge but as caregivers we can only try our best! Protecting your little one from UV rays early on is one of the best things you can do for their long-term skin and eye health.

Infants (0–6 months):

• Keep your baby out of direct sunlight—avoid sunscreen for now, as their skin can’t fully process the chemicals.

• Dress them in lightweight, breathable clothing that covers arms and legs, and always use a wide-brimmed hat for head, face, ears, and neck.

• Use stroller shades, umbrellas, and removable mesh window shields or UV window film for cars.

• Sunglasses with UVA/UVB protection are important—eye damage can start early, and most UV eye damage occurs before age 18.

• Take walks in the early morning or late afternoon, and always use a stroller with a sun-protective cover.

Babies (6–12 months):

• It’s now safe to start using sunscreen designed for infants. Look for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free options that won’t sting their eyes. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are mineral based options that are great for a young one’s skin.

• Continue all the protective measures above, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) to any exposed skin.

• Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming or heavy sweating. Remember, no sunscreen is waterproof—only water-resistant for 40–80 minutes.

Starting sun protection early sets up healthy habits for life. Keep your baby shaded, covered, and protected so they can enjoy the outdoors safely!

Nathan Jones, PA-C

Source https://www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org/education/sun-safety-for-children-and-babies

04/13/2026

Red and Blue Light Therapy

I’ve been getting a lot more questions lately about at home blue light and red light therapy masks, wands, and devices.

Blue light therapy helps target acne-causing bacteria, making it a great option for clearer skin without harsh medications.

Red light therapy works deeper in the skin to reduce inflammation, support healing, and stimulate collagen—helping improve fine lines, redness, and overall skin health.

But here’s where it’s important to understand the difference:

UV light (ultraviolet light) is not the same as these therapies. UV light has shorter, more intense wavelengths that can damage your skin cells, accelerate aging, and increase your risk of skin cancer.

Visible light (like red and blue light) has longer, gentler wavelengths that can be used therapeutically when applied correctly.

With so many at-home devices now available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or assume they’re all safe and effective. The reality is: not all devices are created equal, and improper use can lead to irritation, burns, or ineffective results.

That’s why it’s so important to talk with one of our providers before starting light therapy. We’ll help you:

• Choose the right device (if at-home is appropriate)

• Customize a treatment plan for your skin goals

• Avoid unnecessary risks while maximizing results

Your skin deserves a plan that’s both safe and effective!

Nathan Jones, PA-C

Source: Clinical efficacy and tolerability of new low-level blue and red light therapy technology in the treatment of mild to moderate acne
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 76AB73

04/06/2026

04/02/2026

Vaseline

If you’ve been into our clinic recently, you’ve probably heard at least one of our staff talking about the magic of Vaseline—and for good reason!

This Easter, think of Vaseline like your skin’s very own “golden egg” for healing and hydration:

Heal Extremely Dry Skin – Apply on damp skin to lock in moisture, perfect for cracked heels, elbows, knees, and dry, flaky patches.

Lip and Skin Protection – Hydrates chapped lips and acts as a barrier against harsh, cold, or windy weather to prevent windburn.

Wound Healing – Keeps minor cuts, scrapes, and burns moist, preventing scabs (which can slow healing) and lowering infection risk.

Eczema and Psoriasis Care – Provides a hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic barrier for sensitive skin, helping to soothe and reduce itching.

Prevent Chafing – Works as a lubricant to reduce friction in skin folds, preventing rashes in athletes or during activity.

Protect After Procedures – Our clinic often recommends it to protect sutures and skin after biopsies or minor procedures.

Nasal Lubrication – Soothes dry, irritated skin inside the nose during cold or allergy season, or in dry climates.

Vaseline isn’t just simple—it’s a powerful, versatile tool for keeping your skin healthy and happy. Stop by or call us if you want guidance on how to use Vaseline safely and effectively for your skin.

Nathan Jones, PA-C

Source https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/petroleum-jelly

03/24/2026

Dr. Shah does it again! We’re thrilled with the amazing results on an 81-year-old woman who had a Basal Cell Carcinoma on her right chin. Shah performed Mohs Micrographic surgery on her chin. Take a look at the before and after photos; the scar is barely visible! Another happy patient, and we couldn’t be happier to see her so pleased.

03/16/2026

What to Expect During a Full-Body Skin Exam

During your exam:
🔍 We examine your skin from head to toe (including scalp, nails, and soles of your feet)
-We’ll ask about new, changing, or symptomatic spots
📸 Photos may be taken to monitor moles over time
-Concerning lesions are measured or noted for follow-up

If we see something suspicious:
- A quick biopsy may be recommended (local anesthetic, typically takes minutes)
- Results are reviewed and discussed with you within two weeks.

What to know:
✔️ Exams are usually quick and painless
✔️ You can ask questions at any time
✔️ Early detection saves lives

🗓️ Yearly skin checks are recommended for most adults—earlier or more often if you’re higher risk.

Terra Menkosky, PA-C

03/12/2026

🩹 Skin Cancer Doesn’t Care How Old You Are

Thinking skin cancer is just a "little spot" or something that only happens when you're much older? Think again!

Take a look at this amazing transformation after Mohs surgery for a 38-year-old. She noticed a small spot on her midline frontal scalp, which turned out to be Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC).

That’s exactly why we routinely check your scalps during your full-body skin exam! Basal cell is the most common skin cancer, and catching it early makes all the difference.

So, don’t skip your yearly skin check. If you spot something new, notice any changes, or see any bleeding, make sure to get it checked out!

03/11/2026

Light vs. Medium Depth Chemical Peels

Not all peels are created equal—here’s how to know which might be right for you.

Light (Superficial) Peel

Best for:
✔️ Dull skin
✔️ Mild acne
✔️ Uneven tone
✔️ Fine texture

What to expect:
• Minimal downtime
• Mild flaking for a few days
• Great “refresh” treatment
• Done in a series of 3. Book a consult to discuss our PCA peels!

Medium Depth Peel

Best for:
✔️ Sun damage
✔️ Pigmentation
✔️ Fine lines and wrinkles
✔️ Acne scarring

What to expect:
• 5–14 days of visible peeling
• More dramatic results
• Typically fewer treatments needed
• Requires strict sun protection. Book a consult to discuss our Medium TCA peel!

The right peel depends on your skin type, concerns, and lifestyle (especially upcoming sun exposure).

Not sure which is best? A consultation helps us customize the safest, most effective option for your goals.

Terra Menkosky, PA-C

03/05/2026

Spring Break Skin Prep 🌴☀️
Headed somewhere warm? Here’s how to best prepare your skin for travel!

Do this BEFORE you travel:
✔️ Book any peels, lasers, or microneedling at least 2–4 weeks prior
✔️ Start (or restart) daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+
✔️ Simplify your routine—travel + new products = irritation
✔️ Treat acne before the sun (many acne meds increase sun sensitivity)

Pack smart:
🧴 Mineral sunscreen SPF 30+ (reapply every 2 hours)
💧 Gentle cleanser + moisturizer
🧢 Hat + sunglasses + sun protective clothing (yes, they count as skincare)

If you need extra help addressing your skin care concerns prior to upcoming travel, book with one of our Clarus Dermatology providers today!

Terra Menkosky, PA-C

03/03/2026

The back of the hand is a tough spot for surgery; the skin is incredibly thin, and there isn't much "extra" tissue to work with. This is especially true for our 100-year-old female patient we recently treated for SCCIS (Squamous Cell Carcinoma in situ) on her left hand.

For a delicate area like this, Dr. Neil Shah uses Mohs surgery to get the best possible outcome. By checking the margins in real-time, he can make sure every bit of the cancer is removed while saving as much healthy, skin as possible. 🔬✨

It’s always a privilege to see how well the body can heal at any age ! Check out how amazing her hand looks after just 2 weeks. We're so happy to see her doing well!

02/26/2026

🩺 UV Nail Lamps & Skin Cancer Risk: What Patients Should Know🩺

UV nail lamps used for gel manicures emit UVA radiation, which penetrates deeply into the skin and contributes to photoaging, DNA damage, and cumulative skin cancer risk. While occasional use is generally low risk, repeated and unprotected exposure over time may increase the risk—particularly on the hands and nail units, which are often overlooked during skin exams.

🔍 Watch for changes in the nails and nail beds, including:
• Dry, rough, or scaly lesions on the fingers or cuticles
• Non-healing sores around the nails
• Dark pigmentation or streaks within the nail or nail bed
• Changes in nail shape, color, or thickness

🧴 Dermatologist-recommended protection:
• Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ to hands 15–20 minutes before exposure
• Wear UV-protective manicure gloves (with fingertip openings)
• Choose LED curing devices (shorter exposure times)
• Limit the frequency of gel manicures when possible

⚠️ Extra caution is advised for individuals with a family history of skin cancer or those who are immunosuppressed, as their risk may be higher.

👩‍⚕️ Examine your hands and nails during regular skin self-checks, and report any new or changing lesions to a dermatologist promptly.

Sydney Schwitters, PA-C


J. Q. Duong, M. S. Ceresnie, I. Kohli, and H. W. Lim, Revisiting Cutaneous Carcinogenic Risk From Ultraviolet Nail Polish Dryer Lamp Exposure, Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine 41, no. 6 (2025): e70060, https://doi.org/10.1111/phpp.70060.

Salerni G, Macoc M. Nail Melanoma in Situ in a Patient with Regular Ultraviolet Nail Lamp Exposure. Dermatol Pract Concept. 2025;15(3):5607. Published 2025 Jul 31. doi:10.5826/dpc.1503a5607

Shihab N, Lim HW. Potential cutaneous carcinogenic risk of exposure to UV nail lamp: A review. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2018; 34: 362–365. https://doi.org/10.1111/phpp.12398