Dermatology and Mohs Surgery

Specialized care in dermatology and Mohs surgery—where expertise meets compassion.

Dermatology Services and Procedures:

Skin Cancer screening

A thorough examination with dermoscopy to spot concerning moles or lesions and detect skin cancers, even at early stages.

Skin lesion biopsies

Removal of a small skin sample for laboratory analysis to diagnose skin conditions or cancer.

Cyst and lipoma excision

Surgical removal of non-cancerous cysts or fatty lumps, restoring appearance and preventing further growth.

Earlobe Repairs

Procedure to repair torn, stretched, or split earlobes caused by trauma, injury, or heavy earrings.

Skin cultures

Collecting skin samples to identify bacterial, fungal, or viral infections and guide targeted treatment plans.

Mohs Micrographic Surgery and skin cancer surgery

Precise technique removing skin cancer layer by layer, preserving healthy tissue and ensuring complete cancer removal.

Electrodessication and Curettage

Destruction and removal of abnormal skin growths using electric current and scraping, minimizing recurrence risk.

Skin tags and benign growth removal

Quick, minimally invasive procedure safely removing harmless skin tags or benign lesions for improved comfort.

Cryotherapy of Actinic Keratoses

Freezing pre-cancerous, sun-damaged skin lesions using liquid nitrogen to prevent progression to skin cancer.

Dermatology Services and Procedures:

Skin Cancer screening

A thorough examination with dermoscopy to spot concerning moles or lesions and detect skin cancers, even at early stages.

Skin lesion biopsies

Removal of a small skin sample for laboratory analysis to diagnose skin conditions or cancer.

Cyst and lipoma excision

Surgical removal of non-cancerous cysts or fatty lumps, restoring appearance and preventing further growth.

Earlobe Repairs

Procedure to repair torn, stretched, or split earlobes caused by trauma, injury, or heavy earrings.

Skin cultures

Collecting skin samples to identify bacterial, fungal, or viral infections and guide targeted treatment plans.

Mohs Micrographic Surgery and skin cancer surgery

Precise technique removing skin cancer layer by layer, preserving healthy tissue and ensuring complete cancer removal.

Electrodessication and Curettage

Destruction and removal of abnormal skin growths using electric current and scraping, minimizing recurrence risk.

Skin tags and benign growth removal

Quick, minimally invasive procedure safely removing harmless skin tags or benign lesions for improved comfort.

Cryotherapy of Actinic Keratoses

Freezing pre-cancerous, sun-damaged skin lesions using liquid nitrogen to prevent progression to skin cancer.

Skin Conditions

Acne & Rosacea

Rashes, Atopic Dermatitis, Eczema, Psoriasis

Skin Infections

Skin Cancer

Benign Skin Growths

Other

Acne & Rosacea

Acne is an extremely common and frustrating condition. As everyone’s skin is different, successful management often requires trying different treatments to come up with an optimized regimen that works best for you.

Dr. Nohs General tips:

Products. When applying anything to areas prone to breakouts (face, back, chest), look for products that are oil-free and/or “non-comedogenic” (not acne causing). Always remove makeup before bedtime.
Avoid picking, squeezing, scrubbing or scratching acne lesions. This can lead to longer healing times, skin infections, discoloration and scarring. Some sports equipment or accessories like caps or hair products that touch your face may aggravate acne. Wash equipment, pillows and towels regularly.
Patience. It can sometimes take 2-3 months before you can tell if a treatment is “working” for your acne. It is best to give your regimen at least this long, using treatments as directed by your doctor, before trying something else.
Acne medications may make your skin more sensitive to sun, wear hats, stay cool, wear a lightweight daily facial sunscreen.

If over the counter products are not working for you please come in for an evaluation and treatment regimen.

Eczema and dermatitis

Eczema is a chronic condition that can flare due to internal or external stressors. In addition to treating flares it is important to maintain the skin barrier on a daily basis. We recommend that even after treatment, that you follow the maintenance tips below

Maintenance:

Bathe with warm water. Avoid hot showers or baths. Use gentle soap such as Dove sensitive skin bar soap, Vanicream cleansing bar, or CeraVe hydrating cleanser. No bubble baths, or harsh scrubbing materials to wash the skin
After bathing, pat dry, then immediately moisturize with cream or ointment – such as CeraVe moisturizing cream
Avoid scratching: The more you scratch, the more you will itch. Instead apply moisturizer or cold compress.
Clothing: Avoid harsh fabrics, such as wool. Cut off itchy tags. Launder with fragrance-free detergent such as All Free and Clear, Tide Free and Clear, Molly’s suds fragrance free powder detergent. All Free and Gentle liquid fabric softener, Bounce Free Gentle dryer sheets, Clean People All Natural Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets.

National Eczema Association: Offers support and research updates for eczema and related conditions. www.nationaleczema.org

Psoriasis: What You Need to Know

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes skin cells to multiply too quickly. This leads to thick, scaly pink plaques on the skin often with silvery scale . These patches can be itchy, painful, and sometimes even crack or bleed. Although psoriasis is a long-term condition, many people can manage their symptoms effectively.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease where new skin cells are produced much faster than normal. Psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be spread from one person to another.

There are several types of psoriasis, and each one affects the body differently:

Plaque Psoriasis is the most common form. It appears as red, raised patches with a layer of white or silver scale. These plaques often appear on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back.
Guttate Psoriasis usually begins in childhood or young adulthood. It looks like small, pink spots on the skin and is often triggered by infections such as strep throat.
Inverse Psoriasis causes bright red, smooth patches that occur in skin folds such as under the arms, behind the knees, or under the breasts.
Pustular Psoriasis presents with white blisters filled with pus, surrounded by red skin. It most commonly appears on the hands and feet.
Erythrodermic Psoriasis is a rare but serious form that leads to widespread redness, severe itching, and burning. It requires immediate medical attention.

Psoriasis symptoms can flare up due to certain triggers. Understanding and avoiding these can help you manage the condition more easily. Some common triggers include:

Emotional stress
Infections such as strep throat
Trauma or Injury to the skin like cuts or sunburn
Certain medications
Cold, dry weather

Treatment depends on the type and severity of psoriasis. A dermatologist can help you choose the best option. Some common treatments include:

Topical Treatments such as corticosteroid creams, moisturizers, and vitamin D creams
Phototherapy or light therapy, which uses ultraviolet light to slow the growth of skin cells
Systemic Medications like biologic drugs or oral treatments, which work throughout the body and are often used for more severe cases

Rashes and Allergic Reactions

Rashes and itching can be caused by many different triggers including medications, autoimmune disease, allergic reaction to foods or environment, hormone imbalances, stress. A thorough history regarding where the location, duration, and associated symptoms like itch or pain can help determine possible causes. Sometimes additional blood tests or even a skin biopsy may reveal additional clues. If the rash comes and goes quickly, please take photos and make sure you bring a complete medication list.

Skin infections (Bacterial, Fungal, Viral)

Skin infections are a common reason people visit a dermatologist. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, and often lead to symptoms like redness, itching, pain, or a rash. People with atopic dermatitis or suppressed immune systems are more prone to skin infections. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help prevent complications and promote healing.

Below is a guide to the most common types of skin infections we treat.

Examples of Bacterial Skin Infections

Impetigo: Common in children, causes red sores that break open and form honey-colored crusts, easily spread by contact
Cellulitis: Red, swollen, and tender skin. May be accompanied by fever. Requires prompt medical attention
Folliculitis: Infection of hair follicles, Looks like small, red pimples or white-headed bumps, Can occur after shaving or in hot tubs

Below is a guide to the most common types of skin infections we treat.

Viral Skin Infections – Viruses can cause rashes, blisters, and other skin changes.

8 precautions that can help prevent warts

It can be difficult to prevent warts completely. The virus that causes warts, human papillomavirus (HPV), is found everywhere. However, by taking some precautions, you can reduce the likelihood of you and your family getting warts.

For fewer warts, make sure everyone in your home follows these dermatologist-recommended precautions:

Avoid touching someone’s wart and wash your hands after treating a wart. HPV is contagious. It’s possible for the virus to get inside your body through a cut or scratch, which can cause a wart.
Clean and cover cuts and scrapes. HPV is everywhere. Covering cuts and scrapes can reduce your chance of HPV getting in and causing a wart.
Make sure that everyone in your home has their own towels, washcloths, razors, nail clippers, socks, and other personal items. If someone in your home has a wart, this helps prevent the virus that causes warts from spreading from one person to another.
Wash your hands often. Because HPV is so common, this helps to remove the virus from your skin.
Prevent dry, cracked skin. When skin is cracked and dry, it’s easier for HPV to slip in through a crack in your skin, which could cause a wart.
Stop nail biting and cuticle chewing. When you bite your nails or cuticles, it causes tears in the skin, including some that are too tiny to see. These openings make it easier for HPV to get inside your body.
Wear flip-flops or pool shoes in locker rooms, pool areas, and public showers. HPV thrives in warm, moist areas. When your skin is moist and soft, it’s easier to get infected with HPV.
Treat hyperhidrosis. This is a medical condition that causes people to sweat excessively. When people sweat frequently, their skin becomes damp and soft. Having damp, soft skin may increase the risk of getting HPV infection, which could lead to a wart.

Fungal Skin Infections – thrive in warm, moist areas and can appear in different parts of the body. Usually have a ringlike appearance due to the active leading edge with central clearing.

Parasitic Skin Infections

Lice (Pediculosis)

Benign Skin Lesions

During your comprehensive skin exam, we will be looking head to toe. There are many different types of skin growths that can appear on your skin beyond “moles”. Many also appear as we age due to genetics or UV exposure. Below are examples of common benign conditions.

Nevi (also known as Moles)

Most moles appear on the skin during childhood and adolescence. Moles will grow as the child (or teen) grows. Some moles will darken, and others will lighten. These changes are expected and seldom a sign of melanoma, the most-serious skin cancer.

Moles come in different shapes and colors and should look similar to each other, as if they belong in a family. If there is an “ugly duckling” that is new, it should be examined by a dermatologist.

Most moles do not require treatment. A dermatologist will remove a mole that is:

Bothersome (painful due to rubbing or catching)
Unattractive to a patient (considered cosmetic removal)
Suspicious (could be skin cancer)

We can usually remove a mole during an office visit. Occasionally, a patient may need to return for a second visit. Moles can be removed via excision with stitches used to close the open skin into a line or by horizontal shave to remove the raised portion of the mole, leaving a shallow open area that heals naturally over time.

Your skin tissue will be looked at under a microscope by a pathologist. This is done to check for cancer cells.

Seborrheic Keratoses are very common benign skin growths that can mimic moles or even warts. If bothersome, they can also be removed in several ways depending on the size and thickness.

Angiomas

Angiomas are common benign vascular growths. They can be bright “cherry” red or dark purple. If cosmetically bothersome, they can be removed via laser or electrocautery.

Milia

Milia (singular: milium) are tiny white or yellowish bumps or cysts that commonly appear on the face, especially around the eyes, cheeks, nose, and forehead.

They are benign. If you’d like to remove milia for cosmetic reasons, we offer safe, in-office options for removal via manual extraction.

Tip: avoid rubbing your skin, use exfoliating cleansers or prescription creams like tretinoin which may help reduce future milia formation by improving skin turnover.

Skin tags

Skin tags are small, soft, harmless growths that commonly appear on areas of friction such as the neck, underarms, eyelids, groin, or under the breasts. They’re not dangerous but may become irritated or cosmetically bothersome.

If desired, we offer safe, in-office treatments by snip removal after numbing the skin, or by freezing it with liquid nitrogen.

Skin cancers: Basal cell carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Melanoma.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, and it’s highly treatable when found early. The three main types are:

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Slow-growing, often appears as a pearly bump or non-healing sore or pimple.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): May look like a rough, scaly patch or a firm red bump that grows quickly. Sometimes they are painful.

Melanoma: The most serious type; may look like a changing mole or dark spot.

Skin cancer treatments vary based on the type of cancer, location, and your preferences. At Excel Dermatology of Hawaii, we offer several effective options:

Topical Creams – Non-invasive home treatment for certain superficial skin cancers.
Electrodessication & Curettage (ED&C) – A quick in-office procedure using scraping and light cautery.
Excision – Surgical removal with stitches.

Mohs Micrographic Surgery – A precise technique that removes cancer layer by layer while preserving healthy tissue. Best for high-risk or cosmetically sensitive areas.

We’ll discuss the best treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Hair and scalp disorders, pigmentary conditions

At Excel Dermatology we treat many other skin conditions not listed on our website, please call our office if you have specific questions or concerns. When booking your appointment please describe your chief concern and any additional skin concerns to assist in appropriate scheduling.

Ready to start your Skin Journey?

Our team is here to help you achieve healthy, radiant skin. Whether you need a consultation for medical dermatology, skin cancer screening.

FAQ's

What should I expect to pay during my visit?

Most medical dermatology services are covered by insurance, but your out-of-pocket costs will depend on your specific plan. Cosmetic procedures are generally not covered.

Any procedures performed in our office are typically considered surgical by insurance companies and may be subject to deductibles or co-insurance—even if they seem minor. These may include:

Skin biopsies
Treatment of warts, molluscum, or actinic keratoses
Removal of moles, skin cancers, cysts, or benign growths
Acne surgery and steroid injections for keloids or hair loss (alopecia)
Nail biopsies or nail clippings for diagnosis
Drainage of abscesses

Please note that lab and pathology fees are considered separate and will be charged by that service provider.
We’ll help verify your coverage and provide an estimate before treatment whenever possible. If you have any questions about your insurance or costs, our staff is happy to assist you.

Do I need a referral to see a dermatologist?

In most cases, no referral is needed. However, some insurance plans may require one. Please check with your insurance provider or call our office at (808) 495-0906 for assistance.

What skin conditions do you treat?

We treat a wide range of conditions including acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, skin infections, hair loss, nail disorders, rashes, and skin cancer. We also specialize in complex dermatologic diseases and preventive skin checks.

Who should get a skin check?

Everyone can benefit from routine skin checks, but they are especially important if you:

Have a personal or family history of skin cancer
Notice new or changing moles or spots
Have a history of significant sun exposure or tanning bed use
Are fair-skinned, burn easily, or have many moles
Have a weakened immune system (due to medications or health conditions)
Are over the age of 40 or have never had a professional skin exam

What are signs of skin cancer I should watch for?

It’s important to monitor your skin regularly for any changes. Warning signs of skin cancer include: (include diagram from AAD or other website)

A new growth or sore that doesn’t heal
A mole that changes in size, shape, or color
Asymmetry – one half of the spot doesn’t match the other
Irregular borders – edges that are ragged, notched, or blurred
Multiple colors – shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue in one spot
A spot larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
Itching, bleeding, or crusting without a clear cause

These signs can indicate melanoma or non-melanoma skin cancers such as basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma.

Where can I go for trusted Dermatology information and support resources?

For accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend the following reputable organizations:

American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Comprehensive resource for skin conditions, treatments, and sun protection. www.aad.org/public/diseases
Skin Cancer Foundation Focused on skin cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. www.skincancer.org
American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS) www.mohscollege.org/for-patients
- Information on Mohs Micrographic Surgery and before and after photos.
National Eczema Association Offers support and research updates for eczema and related conditions. www.nationaleczema.org
National Psoriasis Foundation – Educational tools and patient resources for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. www.psoriasis.org
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Foundation: www.hs-foundation.org

How do I book an appointment?

You can request an appointment online by clicking the “Book My Appointment”, or call us at (808) 495-0906.

Where are you located?

We’re located at 500 Ala Moana Blvd, Bldg 4, Suite 470, Honolulu, HI 96813, in Kaka’ako

Will I have a scar?

Yes, any skin surgery leaves a scar, but our team takes great care with closures to minimize scarring and preserve appearance. We also offer post-surgical scar care options if needed.

FAQ's

What should I expect to pay during my visit?

Most medical dermatology services are covered by insurance, but your out-of-pocket costs will depend on your specific plan. Cosmetic procedures are generally not covered.

Any procedures performed in our office are typically considered surgical by insurance companies and may be subject to deductibles or co-insurance—even if they seem minor. These may include:

Skin biopsies
Treatment of warts, molluscum, or actinic keratoses
Removal of moles, skin cancers, cysts, or benign growths
Acne surgery and steroid injections for keloids or hair loss (alopecia)
Nail biopsies or nail clippings for diagnosis
Drainage of abscesses

Do I need a referral to see a dermatologist?

In most cases, no referral is needed. However, some insurance plans may require one. Please check with your insurance provider or call our office at (808) 495-0906 for assistance.

What skin conditions do you treat?

Who should get a skin check?

Everyone can benefit from routine skin checks, but they are especially important if you:

Have a personal or family history of skin cancer
Notice new or changing moles or spots
Have a history of significant sun exposure or tanning bed use
Are fair-skinned, burn easily, or have many moles
Have a weakened immune system (due to medications or health conditions)
Are over the age of 40 or have never had a professional skin exam

What are signs of skin cancer I should watch for?

It’s important to monitor your skin regularly for any changes. Warning signs of skin cancer include: (include diagram from AAD or other website)

A new growth or sore that doesn’t heal
A mole that changes in size, shape, or color
Asymmetry – one half of the spot doesn’t match the other
Irregular borders – edges that are ragged, notched, or blurred
Multiple colors – shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue in one spot
A spot larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
Itching, bleeding, or crusting without a clear cause

These signs can indicate melanoma or non-melanoma skin cancers such as basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma.

Where can I go for trusted Dermatology information and support resources?

For accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend the following reputable organizations:

American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Comprehensive resource for skin conditions, treatments, and sun protection. www.aad.org/public/diseases
Skin Cancer Foundation Focused on skin cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. www.skincancer.org
American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS) www.mohscollege.org/for-patients
- Information on Mohs Micrographic Surgery and before and after photos.
National Eczema Association Offers support and research updates for eczema and related conditions. www.nationaleczema.org
National Psoriasis Foundation – Educational tools and patient resources for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. www.psoriasis.org
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Foundation: www.hs-foundation.org

How do I book an appointment?

You can request an appointment online by clicking the “Book My Appointment”, or call us at (808) 495-0906.

Where are you located?

We’re located at 500 Ala Moana Blvd, Bldg 4, Suite 470, Honolulu, HI 96813, in Kaka’ako

Mohs Surgery & Skin Cancer FAQs

What is Mohs micrographic surgery?

Mohs surgery is a precise technique for removing skin cancer layer by layer, examining each under a microscope until all cancerous cells are gone. It offers the highest cure rate and preserves the most healthy tissue.

When is Mohs surgery recommended?

Mohs is typically recommended for skin cancers on the face, ears, scalp, hands, or other sensitive areas; for aggressive cancers; or for those that have recurred after prior treatment.

How long does Mohs surgery take?

Most cases are completed in 2–4 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the tumor. You’ll be at our office for the entire process, including any reconstruction if needed. During this time for your comfort please wear comfortable layered clothing and bring something to do and or eat.

Will I have a scar?

Yes, any skin surgery leaves a scar, but our team takes great care with closures to minimize scarring and preserve appearance. We also offer post-surgical scar care options if needed.

Appointments & Office Info FAQs

How do I book an appointment?

You can request an appointment online by clicking the “Book My Appointment”, or call us at (808) 495-0906.

Where are you located?

We’re located at 500 Ala Moana Blvd, Bldg 4, Suite 470, Honolulu, HI 96813, in Kaka’ako

What should I bring to my appointment?

Please bring a valid photo ID, your insurance card, a list of medications, prior records, and any referral forms (if required). For new patients, arriving 10–15 minutes early is recommended.

Which insurances do you accept?

We are committed to making our care accessible and convenient for our patients. We currently accept the following insurance plans. If your plan isn’t listed, we encourage you to call our office—our team can help verify your coverage and explore your options. We are continually expanding our network and adding new insurance partners, so check back often for updates.

Aetna Medicare HI
- Cigna
AFL Hotel & Restaurant Workers Health & Welfare Trust
AlohaCare – Advantage
BCBS HI HMSA
Devoted Health
HMSA HMO (HHP)
Humana HI Conifer MCR
- UnitedHealthCare HI Conifer MCR
Hawaii-Western Management Group (HWMG) – HMAA
Kaiser
Medicaid (HOKU)
Medicare HI
Ohana Health Plan
- Wellcare Medicaid
Provider Network America (HMA)
TRICARE West
- VA Community Care – West
United Health Alliance Health Insurance (UHA)
UnitedHealthCare (UHC)

Setttle Your Balance Today

Use our secure portal to view and pay your outstanding bills anytime, anywhere.