Dr. Eliot Mostow, MD, MPH
Physician
Dermatology
Specialty
Dermatologic Surgery,
General Dermatology,
Pediatric Dermatology
Patient Comments
February 04, 2020
Dr Mostow is very caring, smart and easy to talk with
About Dr. Eliot Mostow, MD, MPH
Eliot Mostow, MD, FAAD is board-certified Akron dermatologist providing medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology services to patients at Akron Dermatology.
Dr. Eliot Mostow is currently a Professor & Head of the Dermatology Section at Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) & is Assistant Professor Clinical Medicine in the Department of Dermatology at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) College of Medicine and The Ohio State Department of Dermatology.
Dr. Mostow is a frequent contributor to medical publications and a speaker at medical meetings
Professional Organizations
- Cleveland Dermatological Society, Past-President
- Ohio Dermatological Society, Executive Board member (Treasurer)
- American Academy of Dermatology, Chair of Access to Care Committee
Patient Survey Results
The care you received on your last visit
Overall experience with the practice
Likelihood of recommending to family or a friend
Conditions Treated
Acne
Aging Skin & Wrinkles
Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Atopic Dermatitis
Hair Loss (Balding)
Psoriasis
Rosacea
Seborrheic Keratosis
Skin Cancer
Warts
Actinic Keratoses (AKs)
Fungal Nail Infection (Onychomycosis)
Procedures & Services
Botox® Cosmetic
Biologic Medications for Psoriasis
Patch Testing for Contact Dermatitis
Juvederm®
Laser Hair Removal
Laser Skin Rejuvenation
Tattoo Removal
Tips & Wisdom
Sunscreens
I like to take a pragmatic approach to sunscreen use. Especially for men, the first step is to own some sunscreen and have it where you need it! Put some in your golf bag or with your running shoes or in your car (or all of the above). The second step is to try a few different brands so you find at least one that you like. For example, my wife likes ones that are more moisturizing...but I like some types for my face and other for my arms and body that have more hair! I also like using hats an...
I like to take a pragmatic approach to sunscreen use. Especially for men, the first step is to own some sunscreen and have it where you need it! Put some in your golf bag or with your running shoes or in your car (or all of the above). The second step is to try a few different brands so you find at least one that you like. For example, my wife likes ones that are more moisturizing...but I like some types for my face and other for my arms and body that have more hair! I also like using hats an...
Actinic Keratoses (AKs)
You can think of an AK lesion as a marker for an area of the skin that is at higher risk for turning into a skin cancer (primarily squamous cell carcinomas) than the surrounding skin. Studies have proven that skin with actinic keratoses is at greater risk of developing skin cancer. Some of the best clinical studies were published in Australia where the skin cancer rates are very high. The is the same thing that is happening with polyps of the colon that are at risk of developing ...
You can think of an AK lesion as a marker for an area of the skin that is at higher risk for turning into a skin cancer (primarily squamous cell carcinomas) than the surrounding skin. Studies have proven that skin with actinic keratoses is at greater risk of developing skin cancer. Some of the best clinical studies were published in Australia where the skin cancer rates are very high. The is the same thing that is happening with polyps of the colon that are at risk of developing ...
Biologics for the Treatment of Psoriasis
I like to tell my psoriasis patients that we are living in an era that offers alot more effective treatment options for what used to be a huge “hassle” to manage. So called “biologic” therapy describes another systemic treatment option for psoriasis. ("Systemic" therapy means that it acts on the whole body and is not something that is applied to the skin.) Biologic medications are proteins that act upon parts of the immune system and di...
I like to tell my psoriasis patients that we are living in an era that offers alot more effective treatment options for what used to be a huge “hassle” to manage. So called “biologic” therapy describes another systemic treatment option for psoriasis. ("Systemic" therapy means that it acts on the whole body and is not something that is applied to the skin.) Biologic medications are proteins that act upon parts of the immune system and di...
Acne in Adult Women
A study of acne in adult women showed that acne lesions appeared in the same pattern as seen in teenagers with acne. Over 90% of women with acne had pimples and precursors to pimples on the face. This study also showed that adult women with acne usually respond well to first-line acne therapy. While birth control pills and other hormonal treatments provide an important treatment option for some patients, most adult women will see positive results from the use of topical retinoid and some form o...
A study of acne in adult women showed that acne lesions appeared in the same pattern as seen in teenagers with acne. Over 90% of women with acne had pimples and precursors to pimples on the face. This study also showed that adult women with acne usually respond well to first-line acne therapy. While birth control pills and other hormonal treatments provide an important treatment option for some patients, most adult women will see positive results from the use of topical retinoid and some form o...
Ivermectin - Medication for Rosacea Type 2 (Bumps&Pimples)
A 2014 study in the 'Journal of Drugs and Dermatology' showed that ivermectin 1% cream is safe and effective for treating the inflammatory lesions (bumps and pimples) of rosacea type 2. It is possible that ivermectin 1% cream may be helpful for a subset of patients with papulopustular rosacea who are not responding to other treatments or even as a relatively safe first-line therapy. Presumably these patients are responding, at least in part, to the reduction in Demodex mites inhabi...
A 2014 study in the 'Journal of Drugs and Dermatology' showed that ivermectin 1% cream is safe and effective for treating the inflammatory lesions (bumps and pimples) of rosacea type 2. It is possible that ivermectin 1% cream may be helpful for a subset of patients with papulopustular rosacea who are not responding to other treatments or even as a relatively safe first-line therapy. Presumably these patients are responding, at least in part, to the reduction in Demodex mites inhabi...
Bedsore Care & Prevention
At highest risk for decubitus ulcers are those who are immobile and those who are malnourished. A recent study found the incidence of pressure ulcers in the nursing home environment ranges from 3 to 25 percent. Seniors admitted to acute care hospitals for nonelective procedures such as hip replacement and treatment of fractures were at even greater risk, with an incidence of 66 percent. While bedsores can be healed, they can also be fatal if left untreated or diagnosed in a late stage. For th...
At highest risk for decubitus ulcers are those who are immobile and those who are malnourished. A recent study found the incidence of pressure ulcers in the nursing home environment ranges from 3 to 25 percent. Seniors admitted to acute care hospitals for nonelective procedures such as hip replacement and treatment of fractures were at even greater risk, with an incidence of 66 percent. While bedsores can be healed, they can also be fatal if left untreated or diagnosed in a late stage. For th...
Wart Treatment
Warts are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) and are contagious. They are spread by skin to skin contact to yourself and others. There are several ways we can effectively treat warts, including cryosurgery (freezing), laser therapy, prescription medications (imiquimod) and over-the-counter medications.
Warts are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) and are contagious. They are spread by skin to skin contact to yourself and others. There are several ways we can effectively treat warts, including cryosurgery (freezing), laser therapy, prescription medications (imiquimod) and over-the-counter medications.
Less Soap! More Moisturizers!
My message to patients is simple: Less soap! More moisturizers! By less soap, I encourage people to use soap under their arms, in their groin and skin folds (perhaps under breasts), and on their face if oily, but otherwise just let the water do the job. As we get older, we tend to produce less oil for the skin to be as good a barrier, so we can compensate by putting on a moisturizer, especially after getting out of the shower or bath. Something that scoops out of a ja...
My message to patients is simple: Less soap! More moisturizers! By less soap, I encourage people to use soap under their arms, in their groin and skin folds (perhaps under breasts), and on their face if oily, but otherwise just let the water do the job. As we get older, we tend to produce less oil for the skin to be as good a barrier, so we can compensate by putting on a moisturizer, especially after getting out of the shower or bath. Something that scoops out of a ja...
Atopic Dermatitis Treatment Plan
While I often give our handouts and make other suggestions to address your recurrent and/or chronic dermatitis (you might call if your itchy rash), I often tell people that the simple direction is “less soap, more moisturizers”. For less soap, sometimes it can be as simple as just using cleansers under your arms, breasts, groin areas (skin-to-skin areas), and perhaps your face, and just letting the water do the work on the rest of your body. The fact is, we tend to produc...
While I often give our handouts and make other suggestions to address your recurrent and/or chronic dermatitis (you might call if your itchy rash), I often tell people that the simple direction is “less soap, more moisturizers”. For less soap, sometimes it can be as simple as just using cleansers under your arms, breasts, groin areas (skin-to-skin areas), and perhaps your face, and just letting the water do the work on the rest of your body. The fact is, we tend to produc...
Nutritional Supplements for Psoriasis - Effective?
My patients often ask about alternative treatments for psoriasis, including oral vitamin D, vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids in fish oils, but there are few evidence-based studies to offer any guidance. A March 2014 study of diet and psoriasis was published that examined the extent to which each of these common nutritional supplements has been studied for the treatment of psoriasis. It appears that fish oil may offer some benefit to psoriasis patients and vitamin D shows some...
My patients often ask about alternative treatments for psoriasis, including oral vitamin D, vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids in fish oils, but there are few evidence-based studies to offer any guidance. A March 2014 study of diet and psoriasis was published that examined the extent to which each of these common nutritional supplements has been studied for the treatment of psoriasis. It appears that fish oil may offer some benefit to psoriasis patients and vitamin D shows some...
Indoor Tanning Risks
A study published in March 2014 looked at the association of indoor tanning use and the risk of developing melanoma. It showed that using tanning beds is associated with a subsequent melanoma diagnosis. Exposure from more than 10 tanning sessions is most strongly associated with an increased risk of developing skin cancer. In addition, there was no significant difference in this association since the year 2000 when new tanning technology was introduced. This suggests that newer tanning techno...
A study published in March 2014 looked at the association of indoor tanning use and the risk of developing melanoma. It showed that using tanning beds is associated with a subsequent melanoma diagnosis. Exposure from more than 10 tanning sessions is most strongly associated with an increased risk of developing skin cancer. In addition, there was no significant difference in this association since the year 2000 when new tanning technology was introduced. This suggests that newer tanning techno...
Patient Education Resources
Actinic Keratoses Treatment Options
What treatment is best for you? What are actinic keratoses? ▪ AKs are rough, dry, scaly patches or growths that form on the skin. ▪ AK’s are considered precancerous lesions cause by UV light (sunlight or tanning booth exposure). ▪ If left untreated, AKs may turn into a type of skin cancer called Squamous Cell Carcinoma. ▪ AKs can be treated individually (focal) or as part of what we call field treatment. Side effects ▪ Expected: Redness, scabbing, mild pain, mild burning...
What treatment is best for you? What are actinic keratoses? ▪ AKs are rough, dry, scaly patches or growths that form on the skin. ▪ AK’s are considered precancerous lesions cause by UV light (sunlight or tanning booth exposure). ▪ If left untreated, AKs may turn into a type of skin cancer called Squamous Cell Carcinoma. ▪ AKs can be treated individually (focal) or as part of what we call field treatment. Side effects ▪ Expected: Redness, scabbing, mild pain, mild burning...
Advanced Bleaching / Fade Cream
This cream has several key ingredients that work together to “bleach” or lighten dark spots. This is a cosmetic product that is not covered by insurance. Directions Use it twice daily for only 2 continuous months. Key Ingredients Retinoic Acid 0.05% - Retinoic Acid is commonly used for acne and reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. When used with Hydroquinone, it can improve the effectiveness of fading dark spots. Hydroquinone 6% - Hydroq...
This cream has several key ingredients that work together to “bleach” or lighten dark spots. This is a cosmetic product that is not covered by insurance. Directions Use it twice daily for only 2 continuous months. Key Ingredients Retinoic Acid 0.05% - Retinoic Acid is commonly used for acne and reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. When used with Hydroquinone, it can improve the effectiveness of fading dark spots. Hydroquinone 6% - Hydroq...
Atopic Dermatitis Treatment
WHAT IS ATOPIC DERMATITIS? Common skin disease affects 10-20% of children and 1-3% adults Multiple names (“eczema,” “dermatitis,” “atopic eczema”) History of asthma, hay fever, allergic rhinitis, or sinusitis SYMPTOMS Itchy, dry, scaly skin that can blister, ooze and weep fluid Secondary skin infections due to rubbing and scratching Trouble sleeping TREATMENT MOISTURIZE Reduces dryness and itching Apply immediately ...
WHAT IS ATOPIC DERMATITIS? Common skin disease affects 10-20% of children and 1-3% adults Multiple names (“eczema,” “dermatitis,” “atopic eczema”) History of asthma, hay fever, allergic rhinitis, or sinusitis SYMPTOMS Itchy, dry, scaly skin that can blister, ooze and weep fluid Secondary skin infections due to rubbing and scratching Trouble sleeping TREATMENT MOISTURIZE Reduces dryness and itching Apply immediately ...
Drysol Instructions
WEEK 1: - Apply nightly to clean, dry affected area (underarms, palms, or soles). - Cover with plastic wrap for 20 minutes or as tolerated. - Then take plastic wrap off after 20 minutes and throw away. Leave residual drysol on area overnight. - Cleanse the treated area in the morning. - May cause irritation: if irritation is present the next morning, skip that nights treatment. - M...
WEEK 1: - Apply nightly to clean, dry affected area (underarms, palms, or soles). - Cover with plastic wrap for 20 minutes or as tolerated. - Then take plastic wrap off after 20 minutes and throw away. Leave residual drysol on area overnight. - Cleanse the treated area in the morning. - May cause irritation: if irritation is present the next morning, skip that nights treatment. - M...
Hair Loss Treatment
TYPES OF HAIR LOSS ANDROGENIC ALOPECIA: MOST COMMON cause of hair loss in the US is hereditary. TELOGEN EFFLUVIUM: stressors, pregnancy, illness, medications. ALOPECIA AREATA: immune system attacks the hair follicles. OTHER: Anemia Thyroid disease Lupus Menopause Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Other hormonal imbalances TREATMENTS BIOTIN Over the counter, studies recommend 2500mcg-3000mcg daily. Research demonstrating efficacy limited. FDA warning...
TYPES OF HAIR LOSS ANDROGENIC ALOPECIA: MOST COMMON cause of hair loss in the US is hereditary. TELOGEN EFFLUVIUM: stressors, pregnancy, illness, medications. ALOPECIA AREATA: immune system attacks the hair follicles. OTHER: Anemia Thyroid disease Lupus Menopause Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Other hormonal imbalances TREATMENTS BIOTIN Over the counter, studies recommend 2500mcg-3000mcg daily. Research demonstrating efficacy limited. FDA warning...
Lamisil Guide
How to Use Terbinafine (Lamisil) 28 day treatment We will write you a prescription for 28 days of treatment BUT you are only using it for 1 week each month. Do not fill the prescription until you follow the steps below! 1. Get blood work. We monitor your red and white blood cells and your liver to make sure they are functioning normal before taking the medication. 2. Wait until we have notified you of the results of the blood work. If the results are no...
How to Use Terbinafine (Lamisil) 28 day treatment We will write you a prescription for 28 days of treatment BUT you are only using it for 1 week each month. Do not fill the prescription until you follow the steps below! 1. Get blood work. We monitor your red and white blood cells and your liver to make sure they are functioning normal before taking the medication. 2. Wait until we have notified you of the results of the blood work. If the results are no...
Qbrexza
What is Qbrexza? Qbrexza (glycopyrronium) cloth towelette is a prescription anticholinergic medicine that is used on the skin to treat excessive underarm sweating in adults and is FDA approved for children 9 years and older. How does Qbrexza work? Glycopyrronium, the main active ingredient of Qbrexza is a competitive inhibitor of acetylcholine receptors that are located on certain peripheral tissues, including sweat glands. Qbrexza blocks theses “sweat signals” and reduces e...
What is Qbrexza? Qbrexza (glycopyrronium) cloth towelette is a prescription anticholinergic medicine that is used on the skin to treat excessive underarm sweating in adults and is FDA approved for children 9 years and older. How does Qbrexza work? Glycopyrronium, the main active ingredient of Qbrexza is a competitive inhibitor of acetylcholine receptors that are located on certain peripheral tissues, including sweat glands. Qbrexza blocks theses “sweat signals” and reduces e...
Wart Treatment
Warts are caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Warts are contagious by skin-to-skin contact or by sharing personal items like towels or razors. Genital warts are spread by skin-to-skin or mucosal contact. IN-OFFICE TREATMENT CRYOTHERAPY Liquid nitrogen -196°C is more effective then over the counter freezing methods. May sting with application. Blister often occurs post treatment. May wash with soap and water and cover with Vaseline and band-aid. Okay to pop blister. LASER ...
Warts are caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Warts are contagious by skin-to-skin contact or by sharing personal items like towels or razors. Genital warts are spread by skin-to-skin or mucosal contact. IN-OFFICE TREATMENT CRYOTHERAPY Liquid nitrogen -196°C is more effective then over the counter freezing methods. May sting with application. Blister often occurs post treatment. May wash with soap and water and cover with Vaseline and band-aid. Okay to pop blister. LASER ...
Education & Training
- Medical School: The Ohio State University College of Medicine (1985)
- Residency: Dermatology, University of Michigan Hospitals and Health Centers (1989-92)
- Undergraduate: Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Human Nutrition from the University of Michigan (1977-1981)
- High School: Firestone High, Akron, OH (1976)
- Internship: Ohio State University Hospital - Internal Medicine & Pediatrics (1985-86)
- Masters in Public Heatlh: Johns Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health (1986-7)
- Epidemiology Fellowship: National Heath Institute (NIH), National Cancer Center (NCI), Division of Cancer Prevention and Control (1986-1992)
