Author Archives: Kristine Busse

About Kristine Busse

Kristine is a 4th year medical student at Wright State University School of Medicine in Dayton, Ohio. She is currently the DIGA Midwestern Regional Director and is taking an additional year from the structured 4-year plan to gain experience at the Psoriasis & Skin Treatment Center in San Francisco, California. Kris is a sub-investigator for 4 clinical trails for psoriasis and eczema management strategies and new treatment plans. Her previous research interests have centered on patient empowerment in dermatology and teaching adolescents about the risks of excessive sun exposure. Last year, she participated in the Women’s Dermatological Society Medical Student Awareness Grant Program, with a rotation at the Children’s Hospital in Denver, Colorado, practicing pediatric and surgical dermatology. Her current medical interests include general dermatology, pediatric dermatology, preventative medicine, and patient education.

Rosacea Update: LASERS

Rosacea is a chronic, non-contagious skin condition, commonly characterized by a blushing appearance over the central area of the face with symptoms of itching, burning, or stinging. Laser therapy may be appropriate for some patients – especially those with erythematotelangiectatic rosacea. Continue reading

Posted in Rosacea | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Treatment Options for Melasma

Although the cause is unknown and melasma may be a life-long condition, many patients see improvement with appropriate treatment options and cosmetic cover-up products. Find out what is available to treat this condition. Continue reading

Posted in Melasma | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Melasma – Dark spots on my face!

Melasma is a dermatologic condition characterized by the appearance of light brown to dark-brownish black spots appearing on the face, cheeks, upper lip, chin, forehead, and other sun-exposed areas of the skin. It is usually intensified by sun and UV-light exposure. Continue reading

Posted in Melasma | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Topical Corticosteroids 101

Topical corticosteroids are among the most common medications prescribed by dermatologists. In order to decide which steroid is best for a particular skin condition, your dermatologist will take into consideration the location on your body and severity of the condition. Here are the basics to understanding steroid therapy. Continue reading

Posted in Treatments | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Steroid Phobia

Side effects from topical steroid use are possible. However, with proper use as determined by your dermatologist and frequent doctor visits for monitoring, side effects become much less likely and may be preventable in most cases. Continue reading

Posted in Treatments | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

The FINGERTIP UNIT: A helpful way to measure topical steroid use

The fingertip unit has become a standard way to measure the amount of steroid you should be using to treat skin inflammation. It is a useful way to apply the appropriate amount of steroid in order to improve your skin condition while avoiding side effects of treatment. Continue reading

Posted in Treatments | Tagged , | 1 Comment

Types of Rosacea

There are four main types of rosacea: erythematotelangiectatic rosacea, papulopustular rosacea, phymatous rosacea, and ocular rosacea. Each has characteristic symptoms and physical signs to help you distinguish one from another. Continue reading

Posted in Rosacea | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

How do I know my rosacea is not _____?

Certain characteristics of rosacea overlap with other dermatologic conditions. How can you be sure that your symptoms are due to rosacea and not another condition? Read on to learn the important distinguishing attributes! Continue reading

Posted in Rosacea | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Rosacea: Treatment & Skin Care

To treat rosacea, it is important to avoid the trigger factors that induce it. A number of medications exist to treat the different types of rosacea. In some people, laser treatments can be utilized to treat rosacea. In general, it is best to treat rosacea even between flares in order to keep the condition under control. Continue reading

Posted in Rosacea | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Introducing Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic, non-contagious skin condition, commonly characterized by a blushing appearance over the central area of the face with symptoms of itching, burning, or stinging. Without treatment and avoidance of triggers, rosacea has the potential to worsen over time. Continue reading

Posted in Rosacea | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment