Because of the ultraviolet radiation it emits, the sun is inherently dangerous to human skin. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology stipulates that there is no safe way to tan. Tanning is the skin’s natural response to damage from the sun. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency proclaims that everybody, regardless of race or ethnicity, is subject to the potential adverse effects of overexposure to the sun. That’s why everyone needs to protect their skin from the sun every day. You can set an appointment as well with Advanced Dermatology Center to check any skin concern you have.
How We Burn
When ultraviolet light penetrates the epidermis it stimulates melanin, the substance responsible for skin pigmentation. Up to a point, the melanin absorbs dangerous UV rays before they do serious damage. Melanin increases in response to sun exposure, which is what causes the skin to tan. This is a sign of skin damage, not health. Sunburns develop when the UV exposure is greater than the skin’s natural ability to protect against it.
Sunscreens and Sunblocks
The sun emits two types of ultraviolet (UV) rays that are harmful to human skin. UVA rays penetrate deep into the dermis and lead to wrinkles, age spots and skin cancers. UVB rays are responsible for causing sunburn, cataracts and immune system damage. Melanoma is thought to be associated with severe UVB sunburns that occur before the age of 20.
Sunscreens absorb ultraviolet light so that it doesn’t reach the skin. Look for sunscreens with the active ingredients PABA, benzophenones, cinnamates or salicylates. Sunblocks literally block the UV rays instead of absorbing them. Key active ingredients for sunblock success are titanium oxide and zinc oxide.
There is no sunscreen or sunblock that works 100%. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulates the manufacture and promotion of sunscreens. Sunscreens are given a SPF (Sun Protection Factor) number that indicates how long a person can remain in the sun without burning. It is recommended that people use products with a SPF of 15 or greater. Sunscreens are not generally recommended for infants six months old or younger. Infants should be kept in the shade as much as possible and should be dressed in protective clothing to prevent any skin exposure and damage.
There is no such thing as “all-day protection” or “waterproof” sunscreen. No matter what the SPF number, sunscreens need to be re-applied every 2 to 3 hours. Products that claim to be “waterproof” can only protect against sunburn up to 80 minutes in the water. Products labeled “water resistant” can only protect against sunburn up to 40 minutes in the water.
Even in the worst weather, 80% of the sun’s UV rays can pass through the clouds. Additionally, sand reflects 25% of the sun’s UV rays and snow reflects 80% of the sun’s UV rays. That’s why sunscreen needs to be worn every day and in every type of weather and climate. The sun’s intensity is also impacted by altitude (the higher the altitude the greater the sun exposure), time of year (summer months) and location (the closer to the Equator, the greater the sun exposure).
Protecting Yourself From Sun Exposure
- Look for sunscreens that use the term “broad spectrum” because they protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Choose a sunscreen with a minimum SPF rating of 15.
- Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before you head out into the sun to give it time to seep into the skin.
- Apply sunscreens liberally. Use at least one ounce to cover the entire body.
- Use a lip balm with SPF 15 or greater to protect the lips from sun damage.
- Re-apply sunscreen immediately after going into water or sweating.
- Re-apply sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours.
- Use sunscreen every day regardless of the weather.
- Wear sunglasses to protect the eyes from UV rays.
- Wear wide-brimmed hats and protective clothing to limit skin exposure to the sun.
- Stay in the shade whenever possible.
- Avoid using tanning beds.
Treating a Sunburn
If you experience a sunburn, get out of the sun and cover the exposed skin as soon as possible. A sunburn will begin to appear within 4 to 6 hours after getting out of the sun and will fully appear within 12 to 24 hours. Mild burns cause redness and some peeling after a few days. They can be treated with cold compresses on the damaged area, cool baths, moisturizers to prevent dryness and over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams to relieve any pain or itching. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids when you experience any type of sunburn.
More serious burns lead to blisters, which can be painful. It is important not to rupture blisters as this slows down the natural healing process and may lead to infection. You may want to cover blisters with gauze to keep them clean. Stay out of the sun until your skin has fully healed. In the most severe cases, oral steroids may be prescribed to prevent or eliminate infection along with pain-relieving medication.
Ronald Jurzyk, MD
Dermatologist located in Wolcott, CT
Dr. Ronald Jurzyk is a Double Board Certified Dermatologist and Dermatopathologist with over twenty years of experience. He is President of the Advanced Dermatology Center PC in his hometown of Wolcott, CT. Dr. Jurzyk graduated from Drexel University School of Medicine / Hahnemann in Philadelphia and was elected into the AOA National Medical Honor Society. He then completed his Dermatology Residency and Dermatopathology Fellowship in Philadelphia. Dr. Jurzyk is an Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine in Farmington, Connecticut. Dr. Jurzyk obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy, graduating with Honors and was elected to the Rho Chi National Pharmacy Honor Society. He is also a Licensed Pharmacist in Connecticut.
The Advanced Dermatology Center in Wolcott offers various Dermatology and Aesthetic Services. Along with associates, David Suhocki, MHS, PA-C and Deanna Zimkus, MHS, PA-C, the Advanced Dermatology Center offers comprehensive dermatology services including the Diagnosis and Treatment of all types of rashes, acne, skin cancer, as well as annual skin checks for unusual moles and skin cancers. Dr. Jurzyk is a Fellow of both the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society of Dermatopathology. He is a member of the Connecticut State Medical Society, the Connecticut Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery Society and the Wolcott Chamber of Commerce.
ADVANCED DERMATOLOGY CENTER
The Advanced Dermatology Center in Wolcott offers various Dermatology and Aesthetic Services. Along with associates, David Suhocki, MHS, PA-C and Deanna Zimkus, MHS, PA-C, the Advanced Dermatology Center offers comprehensive dermatology services including the diagnosis and treatment of all types of rashes, acne, skin cancer, as well as annual skin checks for unusual moles and skin cancers.
What We Offer
Ronald S. Jurzyk, MD, FAAD offers a full array of dermatological services to help you maintain healthy skin:
- Acne
- Eczema (Dermatitis)
- Lumps, Bumps, and Cysts
- Moles (Nevi)
- Psoriasis
- Rashes
- Rosacea
- Skin Cancers
- Warts
- Wrinkles
- Birthmarks / Pigmented Skin
- Blisters
- Head Lice
- Hidradenitis Suppurativa
- Hives (Urticaria)
- Keratosis Pilaris
- Lichen Simplex Chronicus
- Poison Ivy
- Poison Oak
- Poison Sumac
- Pruritus
- Scleroderma
- Vitiligo
- Moles (Nevi)
- Warts
- Actinic Keratosis
- Seborrheic Keratosis
- Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
- Boils
- Candidiasis
- Cellulitis
- Chicken Pox (Herpes Varicella Zoster)
- Erysipelas
- Folliculities
- Granuloma
- Herpes Simplex Virus
- Impetigo
- Intertrigo
- Lyme Disease
- Ringworm (Tinea Corporis)
- Scabies
Welcome to Advanced Dermatology
Since 1997, the Advanced Dermatology Center has been working with patients to provide the best dermatological care for patients in the Central Connecticut area.
The experience of Dr. Ronald Jurzyk and his staff is coupled with genuine concern for their patients. All of our staff is dedicated to your comfort and prompt attention as well. Our goal is to help you achieve and maintain healthy skin.
This web site provides you with an overview of our practice and the field of dermatology. As you navigate the site, you’ll find information about the Advanced Dermatology Center’s practice philosophy, staff, office location, services, products, insurance policies, and appointment scheduling procedures. Please browse the site at your convenience and feel free to contact us with any questions.
You’ll find an array of valuable information on this website about problems, diagnoses and treatments related to dermatology in our patient education library. We believe informed patients are better prepared to make decisions about their health and well being. We encourage you to review this information to help you understand any health concerns you may face.
We also invite you to call our office to make an appointment or ask any questions.
Thank you.
Credentials
Ronald S. Jurzyk, MD, FAAD
Board Certified: Dermatology, Dermatopathology
MD: Drexel University School of Medicine / Hahnemann
BS: Pharmacy, University of Connecticut
Academic Honors & Awards:
- Alpha Omega Apha Medical Honor Society
- Nomination to Chairman’s Medicine Honors Program
- Rho Chi Pharmaceutical Honor Society
- National College Deans List
Organizations:
- Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology
- Fellow of the American Society of Dermatopathology
- Connecticut State Medical Society
- Connecticut Dermatology / Derm Surgery Section of CSMS
- Wolcott Chamber of Commerce
Awards and Achievements:
- 2015 Top Docs, Connecticut Magazine
- 2014 Top Docs, Connecticut Magazine
- 2013 Top Docs, Connecticut Magazine
- 2012 Top Docs, Connecticut Magazine
- Hall of Fame, Wolcott, CT Circle of Sports
Appointments:
- Assistant Clinical Professor
- Department of Dermatology
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine
Voted “Top Doc” by his peers 2012, 2013, 2014 & 2015!
Dr Jurzyk has been named by Connecticut Magazine as one of the “Top Doctors” in Dermatology by his peers in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015.
Saint Francis University
- Masters of Healthcare Sciences in Physician Assistant Studies
- Bachelor of Healthcare Sciences
Academics:
- Graduated Cum Laude
- Inducted into Saint Francis University Honor Society
Organizations / Affiliations:
- National Commission Certification of Physician Association
- American Association of Physician Assistant
- Connecticut Dermatology Physician Assistant Society
- Connecticut Academy of Physician Assistant
- Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants
- NCCPA Surgical Certification
David Suhocki, Physician Assistant
Quinnipiac University
- Masters of Health Science
- Bachelor of Health Science
Scholarships
- Quinnipiac University Dean’s Scholarship: All Semesters
- Women’s Auxiliary Guild Scholarship
- Rhode Island Reserve Officers Association Scholarship
- Quinnipiac Outstanding Sophomore Award
- Quinnipiac Outstanding Freshman Award
Certifications and Proficiencies:
- Health Care Provider CPR Certified
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support Certified
- State of Connecticut EMT-Basic Certification
Deanna J. Zimkus , Physician Assistant
Bachelor of Science – Family Studies, University of Connecticut, Storrs CT
Member: National Association of Professional Women Associated Skin Care Professionals.
Treasurer – Wolcott Chamber of Commerce.
Services Provided:
Microdermabrasion
Therapeutic Facials
Chemical Peels
Waxing
Makeup Application & Beauty Services Provided
Consultation & Products Available
Bare Minerals and Skin Type Solutions
Gift Certificates Available
Carol A. Jurzyk, Clinical Aesthetician
SKIN TYPE SOLUTIONS
Did you know that 80% of people are wrong about their skin type?
What is Skin Type Solutions?
This system is designed to accurately assess one’s skin type and make the ideal skincare regimen that’s available at Advanced Dermatology Center. We are very proud to say that we are the first practice in CT to launch Skin Type Solutions.
After taking a 3 to 5 minute scientifically validated quiz, you will be assigned one of 16 Baumann Skin Types and receive a skincare regimen recommendation that has been Skin Type Solutions Certified for your unique skin type.
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Insurance and Billing
We accept most traditional insurance plans. Please contact our office to verify acceptance of your plan. Qualifications for insurance coverage may differ due to the uniqueness of each procedure. We are happy to file insurance for your reimbursement as long as you are free to choose your own dermatologist.
- AARP
- AARP Medicare Complete
- Aetna
- Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee Program
- CHAMPVA
- Cigna
- ConnectiCare
- Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Empire Plan
- First Health (Coventry Health Care)
- Golden Rule
- Great West Life
- Harvard Pilgrim Health Care
- HealthyCT
- HighMark Blue Shield
- Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
- Humana
- Local 1199
- Mail Handlers Benefit Plan
- Medicare
- Medicare Supplemental
- MetLife
- Multiplan PHCS
- Municipal Health Benefit Fund
- Mutual of Omaha
- Northeast Health Direct
- PHCS
- Prime Health Services, Inc.
- Starmark
- Sterling Insurance
- Three Rivers PPO
- UnitedHealthcare
- Self-Pay