Your skin is your body’s largest organ. It protects against germs, regulates temperature and allows you to feel touch. Over time—and especially in Colorado’s dry, sunny climate—it’s vulnerable to dryness, rashes, wrinkles and even skin cancer.

“The two most common skin concerns here in Colorado are 100% due to the climate and our love of the outdoors,” said certified physician assistant (PA-C) Spencer Hamner. “Sun damage and itchy skin are by far the most common issues we see with aging skin.” 

Hamner practices at Integrated Dermatology of Montrose, 3480 Wolverine Drive, Ste. F, where he and fellow PA-C Carly Routzahn care for patients with a wide range of skin concerns—from cosmetic issues to serious conditions like melanoma.

New patients typically start with a head-to-toe exam. From there, Hamner and Routzahn create a personalized plan that may include medical, cosmetic or holistic treatments—or a combination.

Cosmetic procedures can help patients both look and feel better. Medical treatments, like removing pre-cancerous spots, can prevent serious health issues. Holistic care, Routzahn explained, addresses root causes—not just symptoms—through lifestyle-based recommendations like a protein-rich diet and proper hydration.

“Healthy skin starts from within,” she said. 

THE PERSONAL TOUCH

For both Hamner and Routzahn, the most rewarding part of their work is helping patients who have struggled with persistent skin issues or unanswered questions.

Hamner recalled one patient early in his career—a walk-in hoping for a same-day appointment. Fortunately, there was an opening.

“It turned out he had melanoma, a type of skin cancer that can spread to other areas of the body. He didn’t even know it was there,” said Hamner. “We caught it just before it could have become deadly and removed it.”

Routzahn shared the story of a patient who came to her after battling a painful rash for more than a decade. He had seen multiple specialists—even at the Mayo Clinic—but without relief.

“I began treating him holistically,” Routzahn said. “A couple of months later, he was so excited because the rash was much better. He was sleeping deeply and socializing more now that he didn’t have to worry about his appearance and the itching.”

That patient, Tim H., later described himself as being in the worst condition of his life when he first came in to see Routzahn.

“She’s the one who finally helped me,” he said. “She’s a caring provider and I haven’t had any more problems.”

IN GOOD HANDS

The team at Integrated Dermatology also includes Dr. Christine Brown, a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in Mohs surgery and reconstructive surgery. 

“Our team works diligently to ensure that patients can be seen as quickly as possible,” said Practice Manager Marisa Felix-Campbell. “Wait times are typically only a month for new and existing patients. We often hear of patients being told they’ll have to wait six to 12 months at other places, which only adds to the pain or anxiety that comes with a new bump or rash that catches you by surprise.”

This accessibility is especially important for seniors, who make up a significant part of the clinic’s patient base. 

“Our providers see numerous senior patients and know what to look for,” Felix-Campbell added. “They’ve followed many of them for years and are able to quickly identify changes to the skin and act when there’s a concern.”

For older adults facing age-related skin concerns, Integrated Dermatology of Montrose provides expert care that helps them stay healthy and feel confident in their skin.

To make an appointment, call 970-252-7444 or visit IntegratedDermatologyOfMontrose.com.