Nicholas G. Papajohn, M.D., FAAD

Dr. Nicholas Papajohn, a native of Birmingham, is a Board Certified Dermatologist and a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. He graduated from the South Alabama College of Medicine with honors and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Society. Dr. Papajohn completed his residency at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, S.C., where he served as chief resident.

Discover some of the most frequently asked questions by patients like you, provided by Dr. Nicholas Papajohn of Coastal Skin Surgery and Dermatology.

Q. Which sunscreen should I use?

A. My first answer is whichever one you will use.  In reality, most sunscreens available today do a very good job.  The FDA changed their rules over the past few years to prevent misleading information.  I recommend that my patients use a SPF of at least 30 and look for broad spectrum (UVA and UVB) coverage.  Look for the seal of the Skin Cancer Foundation and you are likely safe.  I like Elta MD sunscreens as well as Neutrogena, but most brands are very good.  I prefer lotions over sprays, and I recommend that it is applied 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied throughout the day.

Q. How do I treat fine lines and wrinkles?

A. The best treatment is a good defense, so see sunscreen above.  However, if the damage has already been done there are many considerations.  A good skin care routine that includes a daily moisturizer (with sunscreen) and possibly Retin-A and/or Vitamin C cream can help diminish fine lines and wrinkles.  Wrinkle creams are great, but don’t expect a miracle from a bottle; no matter the cost.  For wrinkles with motion, consider a neurotoxin such as Botox or Dysport.  For deeper folds or wrinkles at rest, consider soft tissue filler or fractionated resurfacing lasers.

Q. What do I look for on the skin concerning skin cancer?

A. Skin cancer can take many sizes, shapes or colors.  The most common skin cancers, basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma, tend to be new pink, scaly or bleeding lesions.  These occur most frequently on sun exposed areas including the face, ears, neck, back, arms and legs.  Melanoma can be a more concerning type of skin cancer and tends to be a new or changing dark mole.  Melanomas tend to be flat at first and that is when we prefer to find them. We try to teach patients the ABCDEs of melanoma which stands for Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter (6mm-size of a pencil eraser), and Evolving (or Enlarging).

Schedule an appointment today with Dr. Papajohn at Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology online or at (850) 654-3376.