Brittain F. Kulow, M.D., FAAD

Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology of the Emerald Coast is the premier provider of surgical, medical, and cosmetic dermatological services as well as skin care products to residents and visitors alike. Our highly-trained team is dedicated to providing the most comprehensive care, while ensuring every visit is as comfortable and pleasant as possible.

Dr. Brittain Kulow has shared some of the most frequently asked questions by her patients over the years. If you’ve ever considered what the best anti-aging treatments are for you, how often you or your loved ones should have skin checks, and what a Photodynamic Therapy treatment entails, Dr. Kulow has provided her expertise to educate you, her client!

Q. What is the best anti-aging tip/treatment?

A. Believe it or not, the one best thing you can do for your skin to prevent the tell-tale signs of aging (wrinkles, dark spots, red vessels and loss of youthful elasticity) is wear sunscreen EVERY DAY. Nowadays, less is more. We want to look natural, not wear makeup, but when we don’t protect our skin from harmful UV rays, gradually, day by day, even for non-beach goers, the damage adds up. The best way to combat that is by wearing a light sunscreen or even moisturizer with SPF, we recommend a 30, daily, year round.

Q. How often should I have a skin check?

A. The answer to this question varies depending on your risk factors. If you have a history of skin cancer, excessive sun exposure, abnormal moles or are very fair, you should be screened more regularly, like once or twice a year. If you are without those risks, it is reasonable to perform periodic self-skin checks and be evaluated every few years.

Q. What is PDT?

A. Photodynamic Therapy, or PDT, involves the application of a topical photosensitizing solution to areas of precancerous skin changes commonly found on the face and scalp, shortly followed by exposure to blue wavelength light resulting in the destruction of atypical cells. Commonly referred to as “blue light treatment”, PDT has the benefits of less down time than standard topical chemotherapeutic creams or skin peels and it is covered by most insurances as a medical condition. As the solution renders the treated area sun sensitive for about 48 hrs post-treatment, it has found favor as a popular off-season, or winter, treatment.

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