At Alta Dermatology, we focus on the skin. We diagnose and treat various dermatological disorders and diseases. We also provide anti-aging treatments to help fight off the signs of aging. We are experts in identifying and removing cysts, skin cancers, and other types of skin growths.
Dermatological Treatments Provided in Laguna Woods
We also diagnose and treat other skin issues such as skin allergies, acne, rashes, and other abnormalities of the skin including eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and dandruff. We perform certain elective and aesthetic procedures such as anti-aging, laser treatment, chemical peels, sclerotherapy, laser treatment, Botox, Restylane, and Juvederm injections.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Many skin cancers are caused by sun damage and prior sunburns or tanning, but some skin cancers are genetic. If you have never had your skin checked by a dermatologist in an annual screening, this is advised. A dermatologist, like Dr. Victoria Wang, is in tune to which spots may be suspicious for skin cancer or precancerous. Treating precancerous lesions may prevent skin cancer and save your life.
Some warning signs that may mean you have a skin cancer are a non-healing wound, a lesion that is spontaneously bleeding, a sore, a new growth, a new mole or a changing mole. If you are unsure about a spot on your skin, have it checked by a dermatologist.
There are many types of skin cancer, but the three most common are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Melanoma is the most aggressive skin cancer and can arise from preexisting moles or normal skin. It usually is brown or black with several colors and an irregular shape, but can start as a small dark brown spot or even a pink lesion. Left untreated, melanoma often spreads to the lymph nodes and other organs and can be fatal. If caught early and surgically removed, melanoma can be easily treated.
Squamous cell carcinoma can also metastasize and spread to the lymph nodes if left untreated. It usually presents as a rough pink bump that is not healing. Squamous cell carcinoma is caused by the sun. Common locations include the face, ears, neck, scalp, hands, and arms. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and is less aggressive than melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It presents as a shiny red bump or a bleeding spot. It is also caused by sun damage and can be treated effectively with surgical removal and occasional creams if superficial. On the face, neck, hands, and feet, basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma are easily treated with Mohs surgery. In other locations, an excision is usually performed. Call our office if you feel you may have a spot that you are concerned about or if you would like your skin cancer screening performed.
Skin Allergies
If you are experiencing ongoing skin problems or irritation, it is a good idea to consult with us. We can help diagnose the problem by performing allergy tests (called patch testing) to help determine what you are allergic to. If your symptoms include a rash and if you are uncomfortable or unsure, it is always a good idea to call us.
Skin Allergy Testing
When something you are sensitive or allergic to touches your skin, you may experience a skin contact allergy. This is also called 
contact dermatitis. Following a physical exam and an evaluation of your medical history, we can determine if you have a skin allergy. We may ask you if you have had any recent exposure to common allergens such as jewelry, perfume or latex.
We can perform a patch test if we think you have a contact allergy. This test consists of taping patches with tiny amounts of different allergens to your back. During the test period you will not be able to shower or bathe, since the patches must remain dry. You should not sweat either.
In 48 hours, we will check the skin beneath each patch to see if you reacted to one of the allergens. We may also schedule you for a follow-up in a few days. On rare occasions, we may perform a blood test or skin biopsy to check for allergies.
Contact Allergy Treatment
Depending upon what is causing the contact allergy, treatment will vary. You may be able to simply avoid the trigger or use calamine lotion, cold compresses, or an oatmeal bath to relieve itchiness and soothe your skin.
If the symptoms are within a small area, we may prescribe a topical steroid to treat the symptoms. If the reaction is impacting a large area of skin, your doctor may prescribe antihistamines or steroid pills. If we cannot determine the exact trigger, she may prescribe antihistamine pills or even recommend an over the counter treatment.
If you are experiencing hives, which are itchy, red welts or angioedema, which is swelling under the skin, it will help to avoid any known allergy triggers. If you have severe hives and antihistamines are not working, we may prescribe steroid pills.
Rashes
Some people just have skin which is more sensitive. This makes them susceptible to irritation and skin rashes. It can help to buy products which are designed for sensitive skin. If these do not work, you may need to visit a dermatologist to determine what is causing the rash.
The term “rash” is not a specific dermatology diagnosis. Instead, it refers to a skin outbreak characterized by discoloration and inflammation. Common rashes include heat rash, poison ivy, and eczema. Infections causing rashes include bacterial, fungal, viral and parasitic infections.
Some rashes may be treated successfully with over the counter treatments. If a rash lasts longer than a few days, you should schedule an appointment.
If it very important to visit your doctor if your skin is infected or open and raw. We can prescribe an antibiotic to help clear the infection. Signs of an infection include heat, a lot of redness or swelling, crusty skin, or pus.
Anti-aging Treatments
We also provide help with the signs of aging. These include fillers and injectables such as Botox, Restylane, and Juvederm. We can also prescribe retinoids which are derivatives of Vitamin A. These include Retin-A and Renova. The active ingredient in these prescribed medications is either retinol or tretinoin.
Another good option for reducing fine lines and wrinkles is hyaluronic acid which is injected by a dermatologist to help fill in lines. Chemical peels are also quite effective at reducing the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and deep creases on the face and neck.
At Alta Dermatology we not only treat wrinkles but also will give you a regiment in wrinkle prevention. Dr. Wang is a specialized physician that can provide treatment to help improve signs of aging such as reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.You can contact us here
We are also very close to and care for patients in Corona Del Mar, Laguna Beach, Ladera Ranch, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, San Clemente, Rancho Santa Margarita, Irvine, Costa Mesa and Laguna Hills