EXPERT
Parvin Shafaa
Dermatologist
- Irvine, CA
- Loma Linda University
- Accepting new patients
Where can I find gentle and effective keloid scar treatments in Irvine? Treatment by OC MedDerm
What is a keloid scar? Are you struggling with a keloid scar? We know that keloid scars grow bigger than normal scars and can form from skin traumas, such as acne, cuts, piercings,...
Psoriasis Treatment – Expert Answers to Your Top Questions
What is psoriasis? Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder of the skin characterized by excessive turnover of skin cells caused by an autoantigenic immune response leading to...
Acne Treatment - Real Answers to Common Questions
What is the most successful acne treatment? In medicine, ‘one size fits all’ doesn’t apply – the most successful acne treatment depends on multiple factors, including the type...
Hyperpigmentation vs. Acne Scars: What’s the Difference? Explained by OC MedDerm
Many people in Irvine and Orange County visit us at OC MedDerm asking, "Do I have acne scars or is it just dark marks? "The truth is—hyperpigmentation and acne scars are different...
Ablative CO₂ Laser vs. Fractional: Which One Hurts Less & Works Faster? | Answer by OC MedDerm
If you want smoother, younger-looking skin, CO₂ laser treatment in Irvine can help. But there are two main types: ablative and fractional CO₂ lasers. At OC MedDerm, a top dermatology...
Can managing cholesterol levels help reduce xanthelasma? | Information by OC MedDerm
Do you have soft, yellow patches around your eyes? These are called xanthelasma. They’re not harmful, but many people don’t like how they look. Xanthelasmas are made up of cholesterol...
Is It Safe to Cover a Keloid with a Tattoo? Expert Insights by OC MedDerm
If you have a keloid scar and are thinking about covering it with a tattoo, you might be wondering if it’s safe or if it could make the scar worse. At OC MedDerm, a top dermatology...
Chemical Peel vs. CO2 Laser for Acne Scars – Which Is Better? | Answered by OC MedDerm Irvine
Acne scars are marks left after severe acne heals. When inflamed pimples damage skin deep down, your body can't repair it perfectly—leaving bumps, dents, or dark spots. Best Treatments...
What's the Best Way to Remove Xanthelasma? Expert Guide by OC MedDerm
If you have yellowish, soft patches near your eyes (called xanthelasma), don't worry - our OC MedDerm dermatology clinic in Irvine can help remove them safely. For small patches,...
How to Know If Your Skincare Is Right for Acne | Tips from OC MedDerm
Struggling with acne and unsure if your skincare routine is helping or making it worse? At OC MedDerm, a leading dermatology clinic in Irvine, CA, we specialize in acne treatments...
How Long Does It Take for Ear Piercings to Heal? A Complete Guide by OC MedDerm
Getting your ears pierced is exciting, but healing takes time. If you got ear piercings in Irvine or anywhere in Orange County, you might wonder how long until they’re fully healed....
Can keloids become cancerous or infected, and what treatments does OC MedDerm recommend?
Keloids are raised scars that form when the skin heals after an injury. They are not cancerous and usually don’t harm your health. However, they can be painful, itchy, or uncomfortable....
Is My Mole Dangerous? Cancer Testing and Diagnosis at OC MedDerm
If you're worried about a mole, getting it checked early is important. At OC MedDerm in Irvine, CA, we offer safe and effective mole removal and cancer testing. Our skilled dermatologists...
Should You Pop Pimples? The Truth from OC MedDerm Dermatologists
Have you ever popped a pimple? It might feel like a quick fix, but it can actually make things worse! At OC MedDerm, our dermatologists in Irvine warn that popping pimples can...
What’s the best acne scar treatment for sensitive skin? answer by OC MedDerm
Do you have sensitive skin and acne scars? Finding the right treatment can be tricky, but at OC MedDerm, we offer gentle and effective acne scar removal treatments in Irvine designed...
What is Accutane (Isotretinoin)? Acne Treatment Guide by OC MedDerm | Irvine
Accutane is a “big gun” in acne therapy. Isotretinoin/Absorica is a powerful synthetic drug derived from Vitamin A. “Accutane” is administered in an oral pill form and has a...
Pregnancy-Safe Acne Treatment in Irvine | Microdermabrasion at OC MedDerm
Microdermabrasion is a treatment that is offered at OC MedDerm. This is a well-studied treatment that provides a method of unplugging acne pores with a handheld medical device....
How Long is the Downtime for Subcision Fillers? Answer by OC MedDerm | irvine, Orange County
To simplify it, remember Dr. Shafa’s “ONEs” rules: Discomfort one hour. Swelling one day. Bruising one week. PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) for one month. PIH (post-inflammatory...
Xanthelasma, a red flag for risk of heart attack!
Although our patients usually seek medical attention for cosmetic purposes, xanthelasma may be a clue for a serious internal disease, namely dyslipidemia. The yellowish plaques...
Types of Common Psoriasis in USA
Plaque psoriasisThe most common type of psoriasis makes up around 80% of all psoriasis cases. Causes thickened, white patches on the skin. Usually covered with gray or white scaling....
White spot on the back of my arms
What to Do:
Moisturize daily
Gently exfoliate
Avoid scratching
Use sunscreen
See a doctor if:
Spots spread, change, or worsen
They become red, painful, or itchy
If concerned, book a consultation at Irvine Skin.
To book an appointment at Irvine Skin, contact Dr. Shafa through the following:
Call us at (949) 551-1113.
Our Address: 113 Waterworks Way 100, Irvine, Orange County, CA, 92618, United States.
Schedule your consultation now: https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
Itchy rash on outer thigh?
Allergy – Soap, lotion, or clothes might be irritating your skin.
Bug bites – Mosquitoes or other bugs can leave itchy bumps.
Skin infection – A fungus like ringworm can cause a rash.
Poison ivy/oak – Sometimes, rashes show up days or weeks later.
Dry skin or eczema – This can make skin red and itchy.
What You Can Do:
Don’t scratch – It can make things worse.
Use anti-itch cream (like hydrocortisone) or calamine lotion.
Put a cool cloth on it to help with swelling.
Take an allergy pill if it's really itchy.
If it gets worse, spreads, or has blisters, see a doctor. Need help? Irvine Skin can take care of it. Call us today or visit Irvine Skin for expert care.
https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
Possible skin cancer?
Warning Signs (ABCDE Rule):
A – Shape: One side looks different from the other.
B – Border: Edges look uneven or blurry.
C – Color: More than one color (brown, black, red, or blue).
D – Size: Bigger than a pencil eraser (about 6mm).
E – Changes: Getting bigger, changing shape, or new symptoms.
What You Can Do Until Your Appointment:
Take pictures to see if it changes.
Don’t scratch or pick at it.
Avoid too much sun and use sunscreen.
See a doctor sooner if it grows, bleeds, or hurts.
It’s great that you’re getting it checked. If you need expert skin care, Irvine Skin can help. Call us or visit Irvine Skin for a consultation.
https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
Pimple question?
Here’s why:
Popping can make it worse – It can push bacteria deeper, making it bigger or leaving a scar.
It will go away on its own – Your body will heal it in a few days.
If it pops by itself, clean the area and apply an antibacterial cream.
What to do instead:
Put a warm cloth on it to help with swelling.
Use a pimple cream with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
If it hurts a lot or won’t go away, see a skin doctor.
Need help with acne? Irvine Skin can help. Call us today or visit Irvine Skin for expert care.
https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
Does having red palms mean your liver is bad?
Liver issues – Sometimes, but not always, linked to liver problems.
Blood flow changes – Your medications (like beta blockers) can affect circulation.
Allergy or irritation – Soaps, lotions, or cleaning products might be the cause.
Skin conditions – Dry skin, eczema, or allergies can make palms red.
Hormones – Changes in the body can cause redness.
What You Can Do:
Look for other symptoms – If you feel very tired, have yellow skin, or swelling, see a doctor.
Avoid new soaps or lotions – They could be irritating your skin.
Drink water – Dry skin can make redness worse.
See a doctor – Since you also have vertigo, it's good to get checked.
If the redness stays, gets worse, or comes with other symptoms, see a doctor. Need skin help? Irvine Skin can assist. Call us or visit Irvine Skin for expert care.
https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
What could be causing this to happen?
Acne or Cystic Acne – Deep, painful pimples that keep coming back.
Folliculitis – Hair follicles get infected, causing red bumps or sores.
Skin infection (like staph or fungal infection) – Bacteria or fungus can cause sores that don’t heal.
Eczema or Dermatitis – Can make skin itchy, inflamed, and sore.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa – Painful lumps in areas where skin rubs together.
Allergic reaction or irritation – From skincare products, shaving, or sweat buildup.
What You Can Do:
Wash your face and neck daily with a gentle cleanser.
Avoid touching or picking at the sores.
Change pillowcases and towels often to reduce bacteria.
Try using an antibacterial or medicated soap.
Use fragrance-free skincare products to avoid irritation.
When to See a Doctor:
If the sores keep coming back and don’t heal.
If they are painful, swollen, or filled with pus.
If you have fever, tiredness, or other symptoms.
A dermatologist can check for infections or skin conditions. If you need expert care, Irvine Skin can help. Call us or visit Irvine Skin for a consultation.
https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
Hive-like rashes?
Possible Causes:
Allergies – Food, pollen, pet hair, or skin products.
Heat or sweat – Can trigger hives, especially after a shower.
Stress – Can make hives worse.
Soaps or detergents – Some products can irritate the skin.
Unknown reasons – Sometimes, the cause isn’t clear.
What You Can Do:
Try an antihistamine (like cetirizine or loratadine) to help with itching.
Use gentle, fragrance-free soap and lotion.
Take cool showers instead of hot ones.
Don’t scratch – It can make it worse.
Write down what you eat and do to see if something triggers it.
If the hives don’t go away, get worse, or come with swelling or trouble breathing, see a doctor fast. If you need expert help, Irvine Skin is here. Call us or visit Irvine Skin for a consultation.
https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
Bump by anus?
Skin tag – A small, soft extra piece of skin.
Hemorrhoid – A swollen vein from pregnancy, exercise, or straining.
Cyst or abscess – A lump that might need treatment if it grows or hurts.
Something else – Since you had herpes before, it’s good to check with a doctor.
What You Can Do:
Keep the area clean and dry.
Avoid straining when using the toilet.
Take warm sitz baths (sit in warm water) to help if it’s swollen.
Watch for changes – If it gets bigger, bleeds, or hurts, see a doctor.
Since you had herpes before, it’s best to see a doctor to be sure. If you need expert care, Irvine Skin can help. Call us or visit Irvine Skin for a check-up.
https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
Rash suddenly all over?
Possible Causes:
Medication reaction – Some people get rashes from lisinopril or other drugs.
Allergy – Could be from food, soap, detergent, or something you touched.
Viral infection – Some viruses cause body rashes.
Heat or stress – Can trigger sudden rashes in some people.
What You Can Do:
Stop any new skin products to see if they’re causing it.
Take an antihistamine (like loratadine or cetirizine) if it’s itchy.
Use a gentle, fragrance-free soap and lotion.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Watch for serious symptoms like swelling, trouble breathing, or a fever.
When to See a Doctor:
If the rash gets worse, doesn’t go away, or comes with swelling or trouble breathing, see a doctor right away.
Since you take lisinopril, your doctor should check if it's a reaction to the medication.
If you need expert care, Irvine Skin can help. Call us or visit [Irvine Skin] for a consultation.
https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
how to tell if i have hpv or just a skin tag
✔️ Soft and smooth, may be darker than your skin
✔️ Hangs off the skin and moves when touched
✔️ Doesn’t hurt or itch and stays the same over time
✔️ Common in areas where skin rubs, like the groin
HPV Wart:
✔️ Bumpy or rough, like a tiny cauliflower
✔️ Flat or raised, but doesn’t dangle
✔️ Can spread to other areas
✔️ Might itch, hurt, or feel irritated
Since your bump hasn’t changed, doesn’t itch, and your family gets skin tags, it may just be a skin tag. But since you’ve had warts before, it’s best to have a doctor check it to be sure—especially with your family history of skin cancer.
For peace of mind, visit Irvine Skin and let Dr. Parvin Shafa take a look. It’s always best to check! Book your appointment today.
Call us at (949) 551-1113
Our Address: 113 Waterworks Way 100, Irvine, Orange County, CA, 92618, United States.
Schedule your consultation now : https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
Is Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream USP, 0.1% used to help with Phimosis?
For Phimosis (Tight Foreskin):
The cream can help loosen the foreskin by making the skin more flexible.
Apply a small amount to the tight area twice a day.
Gently stretch the foreskin after applying (but don’t force it).
It may take a few weeks to see results.
For Eczema (Dry, Itchy Skin on Fingers):
The cream reduces redness, itching, and dryness.
Apply a thin layer on your fingers twice a day.
What You Should Do:
Your doctor may have prescribed it for both conditions.
Call your doctor or pharmacist to make sure.
Do not use on cuts, infections, or broken skin.
If your foreskin stays tight after a few weeks or if your eczema gets worse, Irvine Skin can help. Book a consultation today for expert dermatology care!
https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
Crater bump on arm
Possible Reasons:
Infected bug bite – Some bites (like spider bites) can cause open sores.
Skin infection – Bacteria can make the sore grow and worsen.
Fungal infection – Some rashes cause round, crater-like patches.
Skin condition – Certain skin problems can cause sores that don’t heal fast.
What to Do:
Keep it clean – Wash with mild soap and water.
Apply ointment – Use an antibiotic cream to prevent infection.
Don’t touch or scratch it – This can make it worse.
See a doctor – If it’s getting bigger, painful, or leaking fluid, you need medical help.
Since it has been 9 days and is growing, it’s best to see a doctor as soon as possible to check for infection. If you need expert care, book a consultation at Irvine Skin today.
To book an appointment at Irvine Skin, contact Dr. Shafa through the following:
Call us at (949) 551-1113.
Our Address: 113 Waterworks Way 100, Irvine, Orange County, CA, 92618, United States.
Schedule your consultation now: https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
Toenail fell off
What to Do:
Keep it clean and dry
Apply antibiotic ointment
Avoid swimming for now
Wear open-toed shoes
See a doctor if:
Skin is red, swollen, or leaking pus
Thickness keeps increasing
Bad smell or discoloration
For expert care, book a consultation at Irvine Skin.
To book an appointment at Irvine Skin, contact Dr. Shafa through the following:
Call us at (949) 551-1113.
Our Address: 113 Waterworks Way 100, Irvine, Orange County, CA, 92618, United States.
Schedule your consultation now: https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
Is it IBC
Possible Causes:
Allergy – From soap, detergent, or fabric.
Heat rash – From sweating or tight clothing.
Fungal infection – A red, itchy patch.
Sensitive skin – Common with thyroid issues.
What to Do:
Use a gentle moisturizer.
Avoid scratching.
Wear loose clothes.
Try anti-itch cream (like hydrocortisone).
See a doctor if:
The rash gets worse or painful.
You see swelling, dimples, or discharge.
It doesn’t improve in a week.
If worried, book a consultation at Irvine Skin.
To book an appointment at Irvine Skin, contact Dr. Shafa through the following:
Call us at (949) 551-1113.
Our Address: 113 Waterworks Way 100, Irvine, Orange County, CA, 92618, United States.
Schedule your consultation now: https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
Blister and Wart on Penis Shaft
What You Can Do:
Avoid sex until you know what it is.
Keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection.
Watch for changes—if the bumps get bigger, painful, or spread, see a doctor.
Try to get tested for STIs like herpes or HPV if possible.
If you can’t get tested, consider talking to a doctor online for advice.
If the bumps don’t go away or get worse, see a doctor as soon as you can for the right treatment.
To book an appointment at Irvine Skin, contact Dr. Shafa through the following:
Call us at (949) 551-1113.
Our Address: 113 Waterworks Way 100, Irvine, Orange County, CA, 92618, United States.
Schedule your consultation now: https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
What lasts longer waxing or laser hair removal?
Waxing removes hair from the root, but it grows back in 2 to 6 weeks.
Laser hair removal reduces hair growth permanently after multiple sessions. You may need touch-ups after several months or years.
If you want long-term results, laser hair removal is the better option. Visit Irvine Skin for expert laser treatments.
To book an appointment at Irvine Skin, contact Dr. Shafa through the following:
Call us at (949) 551-1113.
Our Address: 113 Waterworks Way 100, Irvine, Orange County, CA, 92618, United States.
Schedule your consultation now: https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
Rash
Possible Causes:
Shingles – A painful rash that appears on one side of the body.
Folliculitis – Inflamed hair follicles that look like small pimples.
Fungal infection – A red, itchy rash that may spread.
Allergic reaction – Caused by clothing, detergent, or skincare products.
What to Do:
Don’t scratch to avoid infection.
Keep the area clean and dry.
Use an antibacterial or antifungal cream if it feels itchy.
See a doctor if it spreads, blisters, or hurts.
If unsure, book a consultation at Irvine Skin for expert care.
To book an appointment at Irvine Skin, contact Dr. Shafa through the following:
Call us at (949) 551-1113.
Our Address: 113 Waterworks Way 100, Irvine, Orange County, CA, 92618, United States.
Schedule your consultation now: https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
What is this?
Possible Causes:
Shingles: Painful rash with blisters, often on one side of the face.
Bacterial Infection (like Impetigo or Cellulitis): Red, swollen skin that may have pus or crusting.
Fungal Infection (like Ringworm): Red, scaly, itchy patches.
Allergic Reaction: Skin irritation from something she touched.
Leishmaniasis: A skin disease common in Afghanistan, causing slow-healing sores.
What Can Be Done?
If possible, see a doctor.
For pain: Use painkillers like ibuprofen (if available).
For infection: Try an antibiotic cream (like mupirocin) if it looks like an infection.
For fungal infection: Use antifungal cream (like clotrimazole).
For leishmaniasis: Needs special medicine from a doctor.
If the rash is getting worse, spreading, or she has a fever, she needs urgent medical help. Try to contact a doctor, hospital, or humanitarian group for support.
To book an appointment at Irvine Skin, contact Dr. Shafa through the following:
Call us at (949) 551-1113.
Our Address: 113 Waterworks Way 100, Irvine, Orange County, CA, 92618, United States.
Schedule your consultation now: https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
Red face
Possible Solutions:
Lifestyle Changes
Practice relaxation techniques (deep breathing, meditation)
Gradually expose yourself to social situations to reduce sensitivity
Avoid triggers like alcohol, spicy foods, or heat
Medical Options
Beta-blockers (like propranolol): Can help control blushing before stressful situations
Clonidine: Sometimes used for flushing in anxiety-related cases
Topical treatments (like brimonidine gel): Can reduce facial redness
Therapy & Counseling
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help manage anxiety triggers
Social skills training may reduce pressure in interactions
If blushing significantly affects your daily life, consider discussing beta-blockers or other options with a doctor.
To book an appointment at Irvine Skin, contact Dr. Shafa through the following:
Call us at (949) 551-1113.
Our Address: 113 Waterworks Way 100, Irvine, Orange County, CA, 92618, United States.
Schedule your consultation now: https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
Scabs appearing but I didn't cut myself..
Possible Causes:
Skin infections (bacterial, fungal, or viral like herpes)
Autoimmune conditions (like lupus or vasculitis)
Poor circulation or skin picking (even unknowingly during sleep)
Allergic reactions or dermatitis
What to Do:
See a doctor for an exam, especially since it's affecting the genitals.
Avoid picking at scabs to prevent worsening.
Check for other symptoms like pain, swelling, or fever, which could signal infection.
Try gentle skin care and avoid harsh soaps or irritants.
If the scabs keep appearing, a dermatologist can run tests to find the cause. Visit Irvine Skin for expert dermatology care and personalized treatment.
To book an appointment at Irvine Skin, contact Dr. Shafa through the following:
Call us at (949) 551-1113.
Our Address: 113 Waterworks Way 100, Irvine, Orange County, CA, 92618, United States.
Schedule your consultation now: https://irvineskin.com/inquiry-now/
