For Patients

Thoughtful answers to help you understand your care, treatment options, and next steps.

You can book an appointment by calling our clinic directly or using our online system powered by Klara AI. We also offer a patient portal for returning patients.

Yes, we accept a wide range of insurance plans. You can review the full list below or contact us to confirm if we accept your specific plan.

Payment is collected at check-in before your appointment begins. We accept credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
For patients using insurance, we pre-collect any estimated copays, coinsurance, or deductible amounts at the time of your visit. Once your insurance has processed the claim, any remaining balance or adjustment will be billed or refunded accordingly.

Please bring a valid photo ID, your insurance card, and a list of any medications you are currently taking.
Some insurance plans require referrals. Please check with your insurance provider or contact us directly if you are unsure.

Yes. We ask that you notify us at least 24 hours in advance if you need to cancel or reschedule.

Yes, we offer a full range of medical dermatology services (such as acne, eczema, and skin cancer) as well as cosmetic treatments.

• BC FEDERAL
• BC PPO
• BC MED ADVANTAGE
• BC TEAMSTERS
• FIRST CHOICE (through Providence)
• ATRIO HEALTH PLANS
• MODA
• PROVIDENCE
• PACIFIC SOURCE
• REGENCE BCBS
• UNITED HEALTHCARE (including Medicare Advantage HMO-POS-requires referral-)
• UMR
• CIGNA
• HUMANA
• PORTLAND VA -requires referral-

• SHASTA INSURANCE / First Choice
• AETNA HEALTHCARE
• HEALTH NET / WELLCARE
• SAMARITAN
• MULTIPLAN
• TRICARE
• KAISER
• OHP through Yamhill County Care Organization (YCCO)

Acne

How soon will I see results from acne treatment?
Many patients notice early improvement within a few weeks. Continued treatment helps reduce breakouts, inflammation, and oil production over time.
Yes. Acne has multiple causes, so treatment plans are personalized based on skin type, acne severity, and underlying triggers.
Early and consistent treatment can significantly reduce the risk of acne scarring and long-term skin damage.
Yes. Acne affects both teens and adults. Treatment plans are adjusted to address hormonal, stress-related, or persistent adult acne.
Acne can be well controlled, but some patients require ongoing care to maintain clear skin and prevent future flare-ups.
Most acne treatments involve little to no downtime, allowing patients to continue normal daily activities.

Rosacea

How soon will rosacea treatment reduce redness and flare-ups?
Many patients notice calmer skin within weeks, though ongoing treatment is often needed to maintain results.
Rosacea is a chronic condition. Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and reducing flare-ups rather than curing it.
Rosacea-prone skin is sensitive, so treatments are selected carefully to soothe rather than irritate.
Common triggers include heat, sun exposure, spicy foods, alcohol, stress, and certain skincare products.
Yes, but your provider may recommend strategies to prevent overheating and flare-ups during workouts.
Some treatments can reduce redness and visible capillaries, depending on your skin type and severity.

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

How soon will eczema treatment relieve itching?
Many patients feel relief within days, though long-term control takes consistent care.
Eczema often comes and goes. While it may not disappear completely, symptoms can be well controlled.
Yes. Soaps, fragrances, and detergents commonly trigger flare-ups.
No. Eczema cannot be spread to others.
Yes. Skin barrier repair is a key part of eczema management.
Soft, breathable fabrics like cotton are best. Wool, synthetic materials, and tight clothing can irritate the skin and trigger flares.

Psoriasis

How quickly can psoriasis treatment improve my skin?
Some patients see improvement within weeks, but psoriasis often requires ongoing treatment to manage flare-ups.
No. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition and cannot be spread to others.
Psoriasis tends to be lifelong, but treatment can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
Yes. Stress is a common trigger and managing it can help reduce flare-ups.
Many treatments are designed for long-term management and are carefully monitored by your provider.
Yes. Psoriasis can involve nails, scalp, and joints, which is why comprehensive care is important.

Seborrheic_Dermatitis

What causes seborrheic dermatitis?
It’s linked to oil production, yeast on the skin, and inflammation, not poor hygiene.
Dandruff is a mild form. Seborrheic dermatitis can also affect the face, ears, and chest.
Treatment controls symptoms, but maintenance care is usually needed.
Yes. Stress is a common trigger for flare-ups.
No, it is not contagious.
Many patients notice improvement within a few weeks of starting treatment. Consistency is key, and long-term management helps maintain results.

Contact Dermatitis

How do I know what caused my skin reaction?
Your provider may review exposures or recommend testing to identify triggers.
Once the trigger is removed, symptoms often improve within days to weeks.
Yes, if exposure continues or the trigger is unknown.
Most cases are mild, but severe reactions may require medical treatment.
Your provider may recommend simplifying your routine temporarily.

Hives

What are hives (urticaria)?
Hives are raised, itchy welts that can appear suddenly on the skin. They often come and go quickly and may change size or location within hours.
Hives can be triggered by foods, medications, infections, stress, temperature changes, pressure on the skin, or allergic reactions. In some cases, the exact cause isn’t identified.
No. Hives are not contagious and cannot be passed from person to person.
Individual hives may fade within hours, but new ones can appear. Acute hives typically last less than six weeks, while chronic hives may persist longer and require ongoing management.
Acute hives last less than six weeks and are often linked to a clear trigger. Chronic hives last longer than six weeks and may occur without an obvious cause.
Treatment often includes antihistamines to reduce itching and swelling, oral medications for more severe cases, and trigger management to prevent flare-ups.

Vitiligo

What is vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a condition in which patches of skin lose their natural pigment due to the loss of melanocytes. It’s not harmful to your physical health, but it can affect appearance and confidence.

Vitiligo is believed to be an autoimmune condition, where the immune system mistakenly attacks pigment-producing cells. Genetics and environmental factors may also play a role.
No. Vitiligo is not contagious and cannot be spread through contact.
There is currently no cure for vitiligo, but treatments can help restore pigment, slow progression, and improve the appearance of affected areas.
Treatment options may include topical medications, light therapy (phototherapy), oral medications, and personalized skincare guidance based on your skin type and condition.
Vitiligo behaves differently for each person. Some experience slow progression, while others may have long periods without change. Early evaluation and treatment can help manage it effectively.

Skin Infections

What are skin infections?
Skin infections occur when bacteria, fungi, viruses, or parasites enter the skin and begin to multiply. They can cause redness, pain, swelling, discharge, itching, or sores and may spread if not treated promptly.
We treat bacterial infections (such as cellulitis, impetigo, and boils), fungal infections, viral skin infections, and other localized infectious skin conditions.
Signs of infection often include warmth, pain, swelling, spreading redness, pus, crusting, fever, or rapid worsening of symptoms. Infections usually don’t improve on their own.
Some skin infections are contagious, especially bacterial and fungal types. Proper diagnosis and treatment help stop the infection from spreading to others or other areas of your body.
Diagnosis is based on a physical exam and medical history. In some cases, a skin culture or lab test may be needed to identify the exact cause and choose the right medication.
Treatment depends on the cause and may include topical or oral antibiotics, antifungal medications, antiviral therapy, and supportive skin care to speed healing.

Warts

How long does it take for a wart to go away after treatment?
Some warts resolve after one treatment, while others may need multiple visits depending on size, location, and immune response.
Yes. Warts are caused by a virus and can spread through direct contact or shared surfaces.
You may feel brief discomfort during treatment, but it is usually quick and well tolerated.
They can. Even after successful treatment, new warts may appear if the virus remains active.
Over-the-counter treatments may help some warts, but medical treatment is often faster and more effective.
Avoid picking at warts, keep the area clean and covered, don’t share personal items, and wear footwear in public showers or pool areas.

Full Skin Exams

What is a full skin exam?
A full skin exam is a head-to-toe evaluation of your skin performed by a dermatologist to check for new, changing, or unusual moles and lesions, including early signs of skin cancer.
Skin cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Regular exams help identify changes before they become serious and provide peace of mind about your skin health.
Most patients benefit from an annual skin exam. Your dermatologist may recommend more frequent exams if you have risk factors such as a history of skin cancer, extensive sun exposure, or many moles.
Your dermatologist examines your skin from head to toe, including areas not easily seen at home. A dermatoscope may be used to closely evaluate moles or spots that need extra attention.
Minimal preparation is needed. It’s best to remove nail polish and makeup if possible and wear comfortable clothing that’s easy to change.
No. The exam is non-invasive and painless. If a biopsy is needed, your dermatologist will explain the process and ensure your comfort.

Skin Biopsies

What is a skin biopsy?
A skin biopsy is a minor, in-office procedure where a small sample of skin is removed and sent to a lab for testing. It helps diagnose rashes, infections, inflammatory conditions, and skin cancers with accuracy.
A biopsy is recommended when a skin spot, growth, or rash can’t be confidently diagnosed by visual exam alone. It provides clear answers so the right treatment plan can be chosen.
The area is numbed with local anesthesia before the procedure. You may feel brief pressure, but the biopsy itself should not be painful.
The procedure usually takes just a few minutes. Most appointments are quick and performed during a regular office visit.
Depending on the concern and location, your dermatologist may perform a shave, punch, excisional, or incisional biopsy to obtain the most accurate result.
Any procedure that breaks the skin can leave a small mark, but biopsies are done carefully to minimize scarring. Your provider will discuss scar care and healing expectations.

Precancerous Lesions

What are precancerous skin lesions?
Precancerous lesions are abnormal skin changes caused most often by long-term sun exposure. While they are not cancer, they have the potential to develop into skin cancer if left untreated.
They are not immediately dangerous, but they are a warning sign. Treating them early significantly reduces the risk of progression to skin cancer.
They often appear as rough, scaly, crusted, or discolored patches—commonly on sun-exposed areas such as the face, scalp, ears, arms, and hands.
Diagnosis is typically made through a clinical skin examination. In some cases, a biopsy may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.
No. Not all lesions progress, but it’s not possible to predict which ones will. That’s why early treatment and monitoring are strongly recommended.
Treatment options may include cryotherapy (freezing), topical prescription medications, photodynamic therapy (PDT), or targeted surgical approaches depending on the lesion and risk level.

Sun Damage

What is sun-damaged skin?
Sun-damaged skin develops after years of ultraviolet (UV) exposure. It can show up as dark spots, uneven tone, rough texture, fine lines, redness, or precancerous changes beneath the surface.
Yes. Sun damage accumulates over time, which means changes may not become visible until years later. Even sun exposure from earlier in life can affect your skin today.
Not exactly. While aging is natural, sun damage accelerates aging and causes changes that wouldn’t occur as quickly without UV exposure, including pigmentation and loss of elasticity.
Some visible signs of sun damage can be improved with medical treatments, while others can be prevented from worsening. The goal is to restore skin health, improve appearance, and reduce future risk.
Treatment options may include medical-grade topical therapies, laser or light-based treatments, chemical exfoliation, and personalized prevention plans based on your skin’s condition.
Yes. Chronic UV exposure is a major risk factor for skin cancer. Early evaluation helps identify concerning changes and allows for proactive skin protection.

Alopecia

What is alopecia?
Alopecia is a medical condition that causes hair loss, most commonly due to an autoimmune response where the immune system targets hair follicles. It can affect the scalp, face, or other areas of the body.

No. Alopecia is different from pattern baldness or age-related hair thinning. It often appears suddenly, in patches, and can affect people of any age or gender.

Alopecia can begin abruptly because it’s driven by immune system activity rather than gradual follicle weakening. Stress, illness, or other triggers may play a role, but the exact cause isn’t always clear.
Yes, regrowth is possible. Many patients experience partial or full regrowth, especially with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Results vary from person to person.
Alopecia can affect the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, beard, and other body hair. The pattern and extent differ for each individual.
Treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, topical or injected therapies, phototherapy, and regenerative approaches aimed at calming the immune response and supporting regrowth.

Nail Fungus

What is nail fungus?
Nail fungus (onychomycosis) is a fungal infection that affects the nail and nail bed. It can cause nails to thicken, discolor, become brittle, or separate from the nail bed over time.
Nail fungus usually begins when fungi enter through small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin. Warm, moist environments—such as locker rooms, tight shoes, or sweaty feet—make infection more likely.
Yes. Nail fungus can spread to other nails and, in some cases, to other people through shared surfaces or tools if left untreated.
No. While appearance is affected, nail fungus is a medical infection that can worsen over time and cause discomfort, pain, or secondary infections.
Fungal infections live deep within the nail structure, making them difficult to clear without medical treatment. Over-the-counter products often can’t penetrate deeply enough.
Treatment options may include antifungal nail lacquers, medical nail debridement or removal, laser or light therapy, and preventive care plans tailored to the severity of the infection.

Ingrown Nails

What is an ingrown nail?
An ingrown nail occurs when the edge of a nail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. This often causes pain, swelling, redness, and sometimes infection.
Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, repetitive pressure on the toes, injury, or natural nail shape. Some people are more prone due to genetics.
Ingrown nails most often affect the big toes, but they can occur on any toe or fingernail.
Signs of infection include increasing pain, warmth, pus, drainage, redness spreading beyond the nail, or difficulty walking. These symptoms should be evaluated promptly.
Mild cases may improve with proper care, but moderate to severe ingrown nails often require medical treatment to relieve pain and prevent infection or recurrence.
Treatment may include nail lifting and trimming, partial nail removal, infection management, and guidance to prevent future ingrown nails based on your nail structure and lifestyle.

Hyperhidrosis

What is hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition where the body produces more sweat than necessary to regulate temperature. The sweating can be excessive, unpredictable, and disruptive to daily life.

Normal sweating happens due to heat or exercise. Hyperhidrosis causes sweating even in cool conditions or at rest, often without an obvious trigger.
Hyperhidrosis most often affects the underarms, hands, feet, and face, but it can also occur in other areas depending on the individual.
In many cases, hyperhidrosis is caused by overactive sweat glands without an underlying medical problem. Sometimes it can be related to medications, hormonal changes, or other health conditions.
While not dangerous, hyperhidrosis can significantly affect confidence, work performance, social interactions, and emotional well-being if left untreated.
Treatment may include prescription-strength topical medications, oral medications, Botox injections, iontophoresis therapy, and personalized lifestyle guidance to manage sweating effectively.

Mohs Surgery

What is Mohs surgery?
Mohs surgery is a specialized skin cancer treatment that removes cancerous tissue layer by layer while examining each layer under a microscope. This continues until only healthy tissue remains.
Because each layer is examined immediately, Mohs surgery allows complete cancer removal while preserving as much healthy skin as possible.
Mohs surgery is most commonly used for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, especially in areas where tissue preservation is critical.
Mohs is often recommended for cancers on the face, ears, nose, lips, scalp, hands, or other cosmetically or functionally important areas, as well as for recurrent or aggressive tumors.
The procedure is done in stages. After each layer is removed, you’ll wait while it’s examined in the lab. This process repeats until the cancer is fully removed.
There’s no fixed time. The procedure can take several hours depending on how many layers are needed, but you remain comfortable throughout.

Skin Cancer Excision

What is skin cancer excision?
Skin cancer excision is a surgical procedure that removes a cancerous lesion along with a margin of healthy surrounding tissue to ensure complete removal.
Excision is often recommended for skin cancers that are well-defined, located on the body or extremities, or when Mohs surgery is not necessary or indicated.
Excision is commonly used to treat basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and select early-stage melanomas.
A carefully measured margin of healthy skin is removed around the cancer to reduce the risk of recurrence. The margin size depends on the cancer type and location.
Yes. In most cases, the cancer removal and wound closure are completed in a single outpatient visit.
The area is numbed with local anesthesia. Patients may feel pressure during the procedure but should not feel pain.

Cysts

What is a cyst?
A cyst is a closed sac beneath the skin filled with fluid, oil, or other material. Most cysts are benign, but some can become uncomfortable, inflamed, or infected over time.
Cysts can develop when skin cells, oil, or keratin become trapped beneath the surface. Blocked pores, trauma, or natural skin processes may contribute.
Most cysts are harmless. However, changes in size, pain, redness, or drainage should be evaluated to rule out infection or other concerns.
No. Some cysts can be safely monitored if they’re not causing symptoms. Treatment is recommended if a cyst becomes painful, inflamed, infected, or bothersome. How do you determine the right treatment for a cyst?
 Treatment depends on the cyst’s type, location, size, and symptoms. Options range from observation to drainage or surgical removal.
Drainage relieves pressure and discomfort by removing the cyst’s contents. It’s often used for inflamed or uncomfortable cysts but may not prevent recurrence.

Skin Tags

What are skin tags?
Skin tags are small, soft, noncancerous growths that commonly appear in areas where skin rubs together, such as the neck, underarms, eyelids, groin, or under the breasts.
No. Skin tags are harmless and not a form of skin cancer. They’re typically removed for comfort, irritation, or cosmetic reasons.
Skin tags are often associated with friction, genetics, hormonal changes, or metabolic factors. They’re more common with age and in areas of repeated skin contact.
Most skin tags do not disappear on their own. Once formed, they usually remain unless removed.
Removal methods may include cauterization, cryotherapy (freezing), or minor excision. The method depends on the size, location, and number of skin tags.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. When needed, local numbing is used to keep the procedure comfortable.

Wrinkle Relaxers

What are wrinkle relaxers?
Wrinkle relaxers are injectable treatments that temporarily relax targeted facial muscles. This softens expression lines caused by repeated movement, such as frown lines, forehead creases, and crow’s feet.
They reduce muscle activity in specific areas, allowing the skin above to appear smoother while still maintaining natural facial expressions.
Common areas include the forehead, between the eyebrows (frown lines), and around the eyes. Treatment plans are customized based on facial anatomy and goals.
No. When performed correctly, wrinkle relaxers enhance your appearance without changing how you look. The goal is natural movement with softened lines.
Appointments are quick—often 15 to 20 minutes—and require no downtime.
Results typically begin to appear within a few days, with full effects visible in about one to two weeks.

Dermal Fillers

What are dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers are injectable treatments designed to restore volume, enhance facial contours, and smooth deeper lines caused by aging or volume loss.
Dermal fillers add volume and structure, while wrinkle relaxers reduce muscle movement. Fillers reshape and support facial features rather than relaxing muscles.
Common areas include the cheeks, lips, jawline, chin, under-eye hollows, and smile lines. Each treatment is customized to facial anatomy and goals.
Yes. When expertly placed, fillers enhance your features without making you look overdone. The goal is balance, symmetry, and natural volume.
Most treatments are completed in 30–45 minutes, including consultation and preparation.
Results are visible immediately, with final results settling over the following days as minor swelling subsides.

Non-Surgical Hair Loss Treatment

What is non-surgical hair loss treatment?
Non-surgical hair loss treatment uses medical therapies and technology to slow hair loss, strengthen existing follicles, and stimulate regrowth—without surgery or implants.
This approach is ideal for individuals experiencing early to moderate hair thinning, shedding, or gradual hair loss who want to improve density and scalp health without surgery.
Non-surgical treatments can address hair loss related to genetics, hormones, stress, aging, and scalp health issues by supporting follicle function and growth cycles.
Treatment plans may include platelet-rich plasma (PRP), medicated topical therapies, oral medications, and low-level laser therapy—often used together for better results.
Hair growth is gradual. Many patients begin noticing reduced shedding and early regrowth within a few months, with continued improvement over time.
These treatments work best on thinning or weakened follicles. Areas where follicles are no longer active may respond less, which is why early treatment is important.

Chemical Peels

What is a chemical peel?
A chemical peel is a medical-grade exfoliation treatment that removes damaged outer skin layers to reveal smoother, brighter, and more even-toned skin underneath.
Chemical peels are commonly used to improve dull skin, uneven tone, acne scars, fine lines, sun damage, and texture irregularities.
The peel type is selected based on your skin type, concerns, sensitivity level, and desired downtime. Each treatment is tailored, not one-size-fits-all.
Light peels refresh the surface with minimal downtime. Medium peels penetrate deeper for more visible correction. Deep peels target significant damage and require longer recovery..
Peeling varies by peel strength. Some treatments cause mild flaking, while others result in visible peeling over several days as the skin renews itself.
Most patients feel warmth, tingling, or mild stinging during treatment. Sensations are temporary and monitored closely for comfort and safety.

Intense Pulse Light Therapy

What is IPL therapy?

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy uses controlled light energy to target pigmentation, redness, and sun damage beneath the skin’s surface without breaking the skin.

IPL targets excess pigment and visible blood vessels, allowing the body to naturally clear them over time, resulting in a more even and brighter complexion.
IPL is especially effective for sun spots, redness, rosacea, broken capillaries, uneven tone, and signs of photoaging.
No. IPL uses a broad spectrum of light, while lasers use a single wavelength. This allows IPL to treat multiple skin concerns in one session.
Most patients describe it as a quick snapping or warm sensation. Treatments are generally well tolerated and brief.

Facials

How often should I get a facial?
Most patients benefit from a facial every 4–6 weeks, which aligns with the skin’s natural renewal cycle. Your provider may recommend a different schedule based on your skin type and concerns.
Yes. Facials are customized to your skin’s needs. For sensitive or acne-prone skin, gentle techniques and appropriate products are used to minimize irritation and support skin health.
Yes. Certain facials are designed to calm inflammation, restore hydration, and strengthen the skin barrier, which can help reduce redness and dryness over time.
Mild redness may occur, especially after exfoliation or extractions, but it typically resolves within a few hours. Most patients can return to normal activities the same day.
Yes. Facials are often combined with other treatments, such as dermaplaning or light-based therapies, to enhance results. Your provider will recommend safe combinations based on your skin.

Dermaplaning

Will dermaplaning make hair grow back thicker?
No. Dermaplaning does not change the thickness, color, or growth rate of hair. The hair grows back the same as before.
Dermaplaning can be safe for sensitive skin when performed by a trained professional. A skin evaluation is done first to ensure it’s an appropriate treatment for you.
Results typically last 3–4 weeks, depending on your skin’s renewal cycle. Many patients choose regular treatments to maintain smoothness and brightness.
Yes. Makeup can usually be applied the same day, and many patients notice smoother, more even makeup application after dermaplaning.
Dermaplaning is typically performed every 4–6 weeks. Your provider will recommend the best frequency based on your skin goals and response to treatment.

Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT)

Consultation & Imaging
Ultrasound maps the cancer’s size and depth.
Low-dose radiation precisely targets cancer cells.
Only goes skin-deep, leaving healthy tissue intact.
No stitches, no special precautions, and minimal side effects.
Progress monitored with imaging until clear of cancer.

Accepted Insurance Providers

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