Comprehensive Skin Care: Addressing Sun Damage, Benign Moles, and Adult Acne
At Reena Jogi MD in Katy and Houston, Texas, we frequently see patients who present with multiple dermatologic concerns during a single visit. One of our 32-year-old female patients recently came in for a full-body skin exam, evaluation of new skin lesions, and follow-up management of her acne.
Evaluation of Skin Lesions
The patient noted new spots on her right upper back and left breast. On exam, these were identified as lentigines (sun spots) and benign nevi (moles).
Lentigines are light brown spots that develop in sun-exposed areas of the skin due to long-term UV exposure. While harmless, they are a visible sign of sun damage. We counseled the patient on sun protection, including the daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), reapplication every two hours during sun exposure, and incorporating protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats. Treatment options such as topical brightening creams, retinoids, chemical peels, and laser therapy can help fade these sun spots if desired.
Benign nevi (moles) are clusters of pigmented skin cells that are usually symmetrical, evenly colored, and non-cancerous. No treatment was needed, but we recommended monthly self-skin checks and yearly professional full-body skin exams. The patient was advised to monitor for warning signs such as changes in size, shape, or color, or if a mole begins to itch, burn, or bleed.
Acne Follow-Up and Treatment Adjustment
This patient also has a history of moderate acne on the face. At her last visit, she had started spironolactone 50 mg twice daily, an oral medication that helps reduce hormonal acne in women. She reported significant improvement but wanted to explore stronger treatment.
After discussion, we increased her dose to spironolactone 100 mg twice daily, with a plan to check potassium levels in 1–2 weeks to ensure safety. She was counseled on possible side effects such as dizziness, menstrual irregularities, or breast tenderness.
We also reviewed a gentle skin care routine:
Cleansers: Cetaphil Oil Control, CeraVe Foaming, SkinMedica AHA/BHA, or Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
Moisturizers: CeraVe PM, Cetaphil Oil Control, or EltaMD UV Clear
Daily Sunscreen: Broad-spectrum SPF 30+
Acne often requires patience, as it can take 2–3 months to see a 60–80% improvement with treatment. We reminded the patient that consistent use of her prescribed medications, paired with supportive skin care, is key to long-term control and prevention of acne scarring.
Key Takeaways
This case highlights the importance of comprehensive dermatology care:
Skin cancer prevention through sun protection and regular skin checks
Reassurance and education for benign skin findings such as moles and sun spots
Tailored acne management with prescription medications and supportive skincare routines
At Reena Jogi MD, we are committed to providing individualized care for patients across Katy and Houston, Texas, whether it’s acne treatment, sun damage management, or full-body skin exams for skin cancer prevention.