Patients are in good hands with Associates in Dermatology, which provides top-notch nail care among a wide range of services.

There is no doubt that one of the major benefits to living in Central Florida is the ability to enjoy gorgeous weather year-round and take advantage of the many outdoor activities our area has to offer.

Whether you’re making a trek to the beach, splashing around at a water park or just taking the kids to the local playground, chances are you and your loved ones are going to be walking around in sandals or flip flops. In the event that you happen to notice a change in the color or shape of one of your toenails, it is not a problem to be brushed to the side and forgotten about. It could be the sign of a more serious issue, possibly even cancer.

Fortunately, in addition to plenty of sunshine, Central Florida is blessed with a dermatology practice committed to offering experienced providers, cutting-edge treatment and the latest technology. Associates in Dermatology, under the guidance of Dr. Michael Steppie, was established more than 30 years ago and has grown to 16 locations, including Celebration, Dr. Phillips, Hunter’s Creek and Ocoee.

“We want to make sure our patients are treated like family members,” Dr. Steppie says. “That’s what I instill in all of my team members and dermatology providers. We offer dedicated, personalized care for all age groups. We see children all the way up to the elderly, so it’s a comprehensive approach based on the different generations.”

Dr. Steppie is a board-certified physician who has completed residencies in dermatology and dermatologic surgery, and is renowned for his years of service in the field. He is a skilled surgeon with vast experience in the highly specialized treatment known as Mohs surgery, which is used for the removal of skin cancer tumors.

But despite the practice’s well-earned reputation for skin cancer treatment, the dermatology providers at Associates in Dermatology can diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions, including nail health.

“Sometimes people don’t understand that healthy nails and good-looking nails fall under the role of the dermatologist,” he says. “We don’t just focus on the skin and the hair; we also excel in general dermatology and nail care. We will take a close look at whatever condition your nail has and take the appropriate approach. If you feel you have a toenail or fingernail that doesn’t look quite right, don’t hesitate to book an appointment.”

Some common nail issues include bacterial infections, clubbing or curving of the nail, warts, psoriasis and dark streak discoloration, in which a fingernail or toenail develops a new or changing dark streak. It is important to not just ignore these problems and expect them to go away on their own.

“Sometimes, especially for a woman, a quick fix is to hide a nail fungus or disorder by just putting on fake nails or painting them with nail polish,” Dr. Steppie says. “Very often people put it on the back-burner, but it can hide something more serious.

“For example, if you notice dark streak discoloration, it could be a sign of melanoma, which is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Not every dark streak is melanoma, but you definitely want to have it checked out. We’ve had cases where it was a melanoma growing under the nail, and it needs immediate attention.”

Dr. Steppie recommends making nail care a priority and using vitamins such as biotin as part of your daily regimen. And although most nail salons have high standards of sanitation, he also suggests being vigilant in making sure they use an autoclave, a machine that completely sterilizes equipment and supplies to prevent infections.

In addition to nail care, Associates in Dermatology also has a team of specialists ready to assist in all areas of the field, from clinical concerns like acne and rosacea to cosmetic options such as Botox and Juvederm. No matter what the reason is for your visit, expect to engage with a friendly staff in a comfortable setting.

“We would love to see you at one of our 16 convenient locations to take a close look at your specific needs, including nail health,” Dr. Steppie says.

Associates in Dermatology
Multiple locations in Central Florida
Including Celebration • Dr. Phillips Hunter’s Creek • Ocoee
800-827-7546 | DermOrlando.com

Associates in Dermatology and Dr. Steppie have received Orlando Family Magazine’s Top Physicians Awards for the last three consecutive years.

This article originally appeared in Orlando Family Magazine’s January 2020 issue.