About
Dr. Mathew Nicholas is a dedicated Dermatologist practicing in Edmonton, AB, specializing in the diagnosis and management of a wide spectrum of skin, hair, and nail conditions for adult patients, and may see older children for certain dermatological concerns. He provides comprehensive medical and surgical dermatological care within a clinical setting that adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). His focus is on delivering evidence-based care for common and complex skin issues, including skin cancers, inflammatory skin diseases, and cosmetic concerns. The practice is committed to creating a welcoming environment where patients receive personalized, high-quality care using modern diagnostic and therapeutic techniques.
He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Toronto, Canada, and holds specialty certification as a Dermatologist. His certifications include FRCPC (Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Canada in Dermatology), LMCC (Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada), and QEP1 (Qualifying Exam Part 1). These credentials reflect his expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards in dermatological practice, ensuring patients benefit from up-to-date, safe, and effective treatments.
Dr. Nicholas’s clinical philosophy centers on evidence-based dermatological care, patient education on skin health and prevention, early detection of skin cancer, and the development of personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's needs. He is dedicated to serving the Edmonton community with a compassionate approach, providing care in English and emphasizing patient understanding and involvement in their treatment journey. His goal is to help patients achieve healthy skin and confidence through comprehensive and attentive dermatological services.
Dr. Mathew Nicholas diagnoses and treats a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including:
Skin Cancers, Precancerous Lesions & Benign Growths
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common type of skin cancer, typically slow-growing and arising from sun-exposed skin, appearing as a pearly or waxy bump, flat flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion, or a bleeding/scabbing sore.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): A common form of skin cancer developing in the squamous cells. Often appears as a firm, red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface on sun-exposed areas. Can grow more rapidly than BCC.
Nail Disorders (Onychopathies)
- Lichen Planus of the Nails: Nail involvement in lichen planus, which can cause thinning, ridging, splitting, pterygium formation (scarring from nail fold to bed), or even nail loss.
- Beau's Lines & Other Nail Dystrophies: Transverse depressions in the nails (Beau's lines) or other changes in nail texture or appearance that can indicate systemic illness, trauma, or nutritional deficiencies.
- Ingrown Toenails (Onychocryptosis): A condition where the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh, causing pain, redness, swelling, and potential infection.
Hair & Scalp Disorders
- Cicatricial Alopecia (Scarring Alopecia - e.g., Lichen Planopilaris, Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia, CCCA): A group of rare disorders that destroy hair follicles, replace them with scar tissue, and cause permanent hair loss. Examples include Lichen Planopilaris, Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia, and Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia.
- Telogen Effluvium: A type of temporary, diffuse hair shedding often triggered by significant stress, illness, surgery, nutritional deficiencies, or hormonal changes (e.g., postpartum).
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific dermatological condition, please consult with Dr. Mathew Nicholas.
- Botulinum Toxin Injections (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®) for Wrinkles & Hyperhidrosis: Injectable treatments to temporarily relax facial muscles and reduce dynamic wrinkles (e.g., frown lines, crow's feet, forehead lines), or to treat excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis).
- Management of Autoimmune Skin Diseases (Lupus, Dermatomyositis, Pemphigus, Pemphigoid, Vasculitis): Diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune connective tissue diseases with skin manifestations and autoimmune blistering diseases, often in collaboration with rheumatologists or other specialists. May involve topical, oral, or biologic therapies.
- Scar Revision Surgery & Keloid Treatment (Surgical, Intralesional Injections): Procedures to improve the appearance of scars or treat problematic keloid scars, which may involve surgical excision, steroid injections, or other modalities.
- Cosmetic Mole Removal & Skin Tag Removal: Removal of benign moles or skin tags for aesthetic reasons, typically after dermatoscopic confirmation that the lesion is not suspicious for cancer.
- Skin Cancer Screening & Mole Mapping (Dermoscopy & Digital Monitoring): Thorough examination of the skin for suspicious lesions, including moles and other growths. Utilizes dermoscopy for enhanced visualization and may involve digital mole mapping for high-risk patients to track changes over time.
- Microneedling (Collagen Induction Therapy) & Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling: Procedures that create controlled micro-injuries in the skin to stimulate collagen and elastin production, improving skin texture, reducing scars (acne, surgical), fine lines, and stretch marks. RF Microneedling combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy for enhanced skin tightening and rejuvenation.
- Skin Biopsy (Punch, Shave, Excisional, Incisional): Obtaining a small sample of skin under local anesthesia for microscopic examination to diagnose various skin conditions, including infections, inflammatory disorders, and skin cancer. Techniques are chosen based on the suspected condition and lesion characteristics.
Note: This list provides a general overview of medical and potentially some cosmetic services. Treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Nicholas for care relevant to your specific condition. Coverage for services varies; medically necessary treatments are typically covered by provincial health plans, while cosmetic procedures are usually self-pay.
All medical and surgical services (if applicable) are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant dermatological care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Nicholas practices at a dermatology clinic located in Edmonton's SW: Windermere South, Keswick neighborhood. The facility is situated within a modern medical complex easily accessible from major transit routes, including Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus). The clinic is conveniently located near public transportation options, making it accessible for patients from across the city. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for individuals with mobility needs. Parking is available at or near the facility, providing convenient options for patients arriving by car. The practice’s setting offers a comfortable environment equipped with modern diagnostic tools and a dedicated team committed to quality dermatological care.
- Are consultations and dermatological treatments with Dr. Nicholas, a Dermatologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Dermatologist like Dr. Nicholas, diagnostic procedures (e.g., skin biopsies), and treatments for provincially insured skin conditions (e.g., psoriasis, severe eczema, skin cancer, infections) are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB when a referral from a family doctor is in place. Purely cosmetic procedures (e.g., Botox for wrinkles, most laser hair removal, fillers for aesthetic enhancement) are typically not covered and are self-pay. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics for any proposed treatment with Dr. Nicholas's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) beforehand, especially if there's a potential cosmetic component.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Nicholas, a Dermatologist?
- Yes, for medically necessary dermatological care covered by the provincial health plan, a referral from your family physician or another specialist (e.g., an ER doctor for an acute issue) is almost always required to see a Dermatologist such as Dr. Nicholas. This ensures coordinated care and that your visit is appropriate for specialist assessment. Some dermatologists may offer consultations for uninsured cosmetic services without a referral, but these would be a direct cost to you. Always check with the clinic regarding their specific referral policy.
- What is the difference between a Dermatologist and an Esthetician?
- A Dermatologist, like Dr. Dr. Nicholas, is a medical doctor (MD) who has completed medical school followed by several years of specialized residency training in dermatology. They are qualified to diagnose and treat over 3,000 diseases of the skin, hair, and nails, prescribe medications, perform surgical procedures (like skin cancer removal), and manage complex skin conditions. An Esthetician (or Aesthetician) is a skincare professional trained in cosmetic skin treatments and services that improve the appearance of the skin, such as facials, superficial chemical peels, microdermabrasion, waxing, and makeup application. They are not medical doctors and cannot diagnose skin diseases, prescribe medications, or perform medical or surgical procedures.
- What are the general risks and benefits of cosmetic procedures Dr. Nicholas might offer?
- The benefits of cosmetic procedures offered by a qualified Dermatologist like Dr. Nicholas can include improvement in skin appearance, texture, tone, reduction of wrinkles or scars, and enhanced self-confidence. However, all procedures carry some risks. Common risks for minimally invasive cosmetic treatments (like injectables or lasers) can include temporary redness, swelling, bruising, pain, or itching at the treatment site. Less common risks might include infection, allergic reaction, changes in skin pigmentation, or unsatisfactory results. More invasive procedures have different risk profiles. Dr. Nicholas will discuss the specific risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of any proposed cosmetic procedure in detail during your consultation to help you make an informed decision.
- If Dr. Nicholas recommends phototherapy, what does that involve?
- Phototherapy, also known as light therapy, is a medical treatment where your skin is exposed to specific wavelengths of ultraviolet (UV) light under strict medical supervision. Dr. Nicholas might recommend it for conditions like psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, or cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Treatments are typically given 2-3 times a week in a specialized light cabinet or with a handheld device for smaller areas. The type of UV light (e.g., Narrowband UVB, PUVA) and treatment duration are carefully controlled. It works by reducing inflammation and slowing down the rapid growth of skin cells. You'll be given specific instructions, including eye protection.
- What kind of sunscreen does Dr. Nicholas recommend?
- While specific brand recommendations can vary, Dr. Nicholas would likely advise choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or higher. For daily use, a lighter formulation might be preferred, while for prolonged outdoor activities, water-resistant sunscreen is important. Consider your skin type: individuals with sensitive skin might prefer mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. The most important thing is to apply sunscreen generously and reapply it every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating. Dr. Nicholas can provide personalized recommendations based on your skin type and lifestyle during your consultation.
207-5540 Windermere Blvd NW
Edmonton, AB T6W 2Z8
Phone: (780) 439-7546
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Nicholas is a licensed Dermatologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Nicholas for medically necessary services covered by the provincial health plan. Cosmetic consultations may have different requirements.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=95dce219-e014-431e-b817-ee5cdd0b547b&i=1059