General Dermatology
Click on a topic below to learn more:
Acne
Acne is the term for the blocked pores (blackheads and whiteheads), pimples, and deeper lumps (cysts or nodules) that can appear typically on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and upper arms. Seventeen million Americans currently have acne, making it the most common skin disease in the country. Acne is not life-threatening, but it can cause physical disfigurement (scarring) and emotional distress.
Treatment for acne varies depending on the type and severity of lesions, as well as the patient's skin type, age and lifestyle. Options include:
- Topical Medications
- Antibiotics
- Accutane
- Blackhead Extraction
- Microdermabrasion
- Photodynamic Therapy
- Skin Care
- Blu-U Light Treatments
- Laser Treatments
Click here for more information on Acne »
Dandruff
Dandruff is a chronic skin disorder that causes itching and flaking of the scalp. Dandruff is believed to be caused by a yeast-like fungus in the scalp called malassezia. Malassezia is found in most people, but large amounts can cause irritation and result in a dry, itchy scalp and flakes of oily, dead cells.
Mild cases of dandruff can usually be managed with an over-the-counter dandruff shampoo. More stubborn cases may need a prescription-strength shampoo. Although dandruff is chronic, it can be controlled by managing stress, shampooing often and cutting back on styling products.
Click here for more information on Dandruff »
Dry Skin
Dry skin is a common condition that can develop as a result of certain skin diseases like psoriasis or environmental factors such as cold weather, hot showers, harsh soaps and sun exposure. Patients with this condition often experience skin that feels rough, tight and may be itchy or red. For most, this is only a temporary problem and can be managed through simple home and life measures, including using moisturizers and special creams or avoiding hot showers and baths. For more severe cases, prescription creams and ointments may be recommended to calm skin.
Click here for more information on Dry Skin »
Eczema
Eczema is a group of inflamed skin conditions that result in chronic itchy rashes. About 15 million people in the U.S. suffer from some form of eczema, including 10-20 percent of all infants. Symptoms vary from person to person but often include dry, red, itchy patches on the skin which break out in rashes when scratched or exposed to certain triggers.
Treatment involves the restriction of scratching, use of moisturizing lotions or creams, cold compresses and nonprescription anti-inflammatory corticosteroid creams and ointments. If this proves insufficient, physicians may prescribe corticosteroid medication, antibiotics to combat infection, or sedative antihistamines.
Click here for more information on Eczema »
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections are common skin conditions that may cause redness, itching, burning and scaling. They can also cause blisters or peeling. Fungus can grow anywhere on the body, but tends to develop in warm, moist areas such as the feet, groin and armpit area. Common types of fungal infections include athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm and yeast infections.
Fungal infections can usually be successfully treated with antifungal oral or topical medications. They are not usually serious, but may be contagious, so treatment is important. Keeping the body clean and changing socks and underwear everyday can help prevent fungal infections.
Click here for more information on Fungal Infections »
Hair Loss - Including Thinning
Hair loss can occur as a result of aging, heredity, medications or an underlying medical condition, and can affect men and women of all ages. It may leave you with pattern baldness, patchy spots or thinned hair. Some patients may also experience excessive hair shedding, a condition known as telogen effluvium. Most people are troubled by this undesired change to their appearance.
The best treatment option for hair loss depends on the location and extent of the hair loss, but may include hair growth medications, wigs and hairpieces, and hair transplant or scalp reduction surgery.
Click here for more information on Hair Loss »
Moles
Moles and other birthmarks are benign pigmented spots or patches of skin that range in color from tan, brown and black (moles) to red or pink. Though most birthmarks are harmless, they may develop into cancer. Moles exhibiting any of the following warning signs should be examined by a professional immediately:
- Larger than six millimeters.
- Itches or bleeds.
- Rapidly changes in color, size or shape.
- Has multiple colors.
- Is located where it can't be easily monitored, such as on the scalp.
For patients bothered by the appearance of their moles, treatment may include laser or pulsed light therapy, microdermabrasion or surgical excision.
Click here for more information on Moles »
