Reduce Wrinkles

It is inevitable to develop wrinkles as we age. We can only do so much to
slow down the process. There are several procedures employed that can help
diminish the effects of aging such as microdermabrasion,
chemical peels,
and laser
resurfacing, each with its own advantage and disadvantage.

It is always best to consult your skin care professional or dermatologist as to
what procedure is best for you to achieve encouraging results on your skin.
Reactions to the various procedures differ for each person. The positive effect
that one may achieve with a certain procedure may instead aggravate your
condition. Your doctor should know what is best for you and it is imperative
that you trust them completely.

To repair prematurely aged skin, most specialists will recommend several
nutritional supplements which have antioxidants and other vitamins and minerals
that revitalize the skin. Aged skin can cause wrinkles since they lack the
flexibility of the cells found in younger skin. This causes it to sag and
wrinkle. Thus, the goal of this type of treatment is to remove the old skin
layer to be able to make room for the new skin layer to surface. This is
achieved by increasing the rate of cell turnover until it is consistent with the
turnover rate of healthy skin which is 21 to 28 days. Then, when the top layer
of dead skin cells is removed and indentations occur, removers are relaxers or
fillers such as botox, restylane, and collagen.

Consult a skin care expert for advice on how to fix aged skin and which
supplement is best for your body and skin's metabolism. Ask for advice on
nutritional supplements that contain antioxidants and revitalizing vitamins and
minerals.

The purpose of any skin treatment program will be to increase the cell
turnover so that it's rate is more consistent with that of healthy skin.

Wrinkle Treatments

The rate of healthy skin turnover is every 21 to 28 days. Here are some
suggestions:
A rejuvenating facial
employs deep cleansing with the addition of antioxidants and serums made for the
reduction of the visible aging signs.
A glycolic acid
peel removes dead skin cells through the exfoliation of the skin which in
turn stimulates the production of new collagen for the growth of new
cells.
Microdermabrasion is the mechanical way of shedding the old layer of
skin by using a machine to exfoliate the dead skin cells, thus increasing cell
turnover.

Skin treatments should be made a regular habit, practiced every four to six
weeks which is as often these skin cells turn over. Nothing will be gained with
just one treatment. It should be a constant thing and done with the supervision
of your skin care specialist because if not, then it is useless to even start
treatment.

Nail Care

So often nail care is relegated to the category of luxury, not need. Many men
and women neglect nail care either due to a lack of time or inclination that
effort is better spent elsewhere. How awful then that most first impressions
come from handshakes? Inevitably, new acquaintances and potential business
clients glance at the hand extended to them. Well manicured fingers are not only
inviting, but nonverbally communicate an attention to detail more powerful than
any boasting of past deeds. But how do you achieve flawless nail care when you
are on a tight schedule as most of us are?

The significant steps for well manicured finger nails are: soaking to remove
dirt and grime, trimming cuticles, filing nails, and applying a clear coat for
protection and shine. To maximize efficiency, begin by multitasking! Instead of
soaking hands for five to ten minutes in warm water in an act on its own, take
advantage of the times when hands are already spotless. After a shower or
finishing the evening dishes is a perfect time to jump to step two. If there is
any residue under nails after the shower or dishwashing, simply ease an orange
stick or tip of a pointed nail file under the edge of the finger nail.

Hand soaking does not only remove dirt from the day's activities; it also
softens cuticles for trimming. For really soft hands, soak hands in a water bath
mixture of gentle soap and a moisturizing lotion. If you used the orange stick
to clean under your nails, quickly wash it to remove any bacteria before using
it on your cuticles. Use the stick to ease back any wayward cuticles, also known
as the skin around fingernails that is painful when pulled. Only use the stick
to make the skin stand up, and try not to pull up living skin as that will be a
big "Ouch!" Using a nail clipper, or you can purchase a special cuticle clipper,
snip the dead skin away. This leaves nails looking larger, and reduces the
likelihood the skin will rip and bleed at a later date.

You will need to wait a bit between steps two and three, as filing wet nails
is a good way to cause unintended ripping. Only once nails are thoroughly dry
should a nail file or emery board be used to file. If nails have grown too long
to be comfortable, use a nail clipper first to trim down the nail and the nail
file only for fine tuning. Men should keep a boxier look to their nails, keeping
a clean, neat appearance, but not necessarily an overly manicured one. Women can
shape finger nails into a more rounded tip, a nice trick to make fingers look
longer and more slender, or keep a square edge to draw attention to the
nail.

Unless it is a special occasion, skip the nail color and only apply a clear
coat of polish. Almost worse than neglected nail care is half-hearted nail care,
and chipped bright nail polish screams half-hearted effort. A simple clear coat
or two of polish is all that is needed for attractive, professional hands.
Polish is not simply an aesthetic. A strong nail polish will also help protect
nails from the daily abuse of finger jamming, snags, and breaking. It won't
prevent damage if you slam a hammer on your finger, but normal wear and tear
shouldn't be a problem. Nail polish has a pretty short shelf life once opened,
so after a few weeks, replace it with a new bottle. If the polish is chunky and
resists spreading from the brush, it has expired. Apply in two to three broad
strokes to prevent unflattering streaks. If a large glob of polish lands on a
finger nail, simply wipe it away and begin anew. Heavy coats of polish won't
cure or harden in time to prevent a smudge or finger nail print.

Finally, receiving a manicure can be relaxing and stress reducing, but the
expense and needed time are often in short supply for many of us. Don't forsake
all your nail care for those reasons. With only about a weekly twenty minute
time investment, hands can keep the look of a professional manicure.
Well-manicured hands are a sign of class and professionalism. Use multitasking
to reduce the overall time investment needed, and only hit on the important
steps. If you have more time to devote to nail care, then by all means use a
neutral color requiring more coats, or add a tasteful decoration to the tips.
Just remember to refresh the color or design as appropriate to prevent it from
looking shabby. Keep up this small detail of personal care to wow anyone on a
first impression.

Flawless Makeup Tips

No professional make up team on standby? No problem. Just a few simple
techniques yield a fresh and flawless face to put forward. A good make up look
radiates class, sophistication, and enhances the wearer's natural pleasing
features. In addition to bringing out the best of the face, make up works double
duty in disguising any blemishes or break outs. With so many brands, shades, and
types of cosmetics flooding the market, it can be a Herculean task to correctly
apply make up. Use the following tips to create a polished, practiced, and new
make up look for any occasion.

Foundation
Foundation should only be applied to healthy, clean
skin. Never test a color on the back of your hand to determine the right tone, a
hand is typically a few shades darker than a jaw line. The perfect foundation
shade will disappear when applied, and shouldn't be used to conceal blemishes.
Instead, find a concealer one shade lighter than your skin tone and apply it in
a blotting motion with a small make up brush. This technique ensures the
concealer covers all three dimensions of a blemish, and doesn't just skim the
surface like a sponge would.

Beauty Tools
Utilize make up brushes for application when possible.
These can easily be washed, spritzed with disinfectant, and safely used over and
over again. Sponge applicators quickly harbor a breeding ground for bacteria.
Keep separate brushes for products to prevent dark color residue from destroying
an intended lightening effect. Greater blending can be accomplished with a 100%
cotton ball, swab, or pad. Poly blend cotton products will only smear. True
blending requires the cotton to absorb the excess cosmetics which a synthetic
fiber will not do.

Eyes
Branch out from black and brown eyeliner. Buying an eyeliner
brush, a firm and narrowly angled bristle brush, will allow you to use your
darker eye shadow as eyeliner. Simply dampen the tip of the brush and run it
through the eye shadow. Try lining with a lighter shade for the inner corners of
your eyes to open them up. Be sure to use at least three tones of shadow
gradually blended from eye lid to brow. Using only one color is very
unflattering and fake. To prevent bold colors like purples from appearing harsh
or theatrical, try blending with a coppery brown to diminish the contrast.

Lips
Exfoliating lips of dead skin cells can bring a natural lush
red only needing clear lip gloss coverage. Also, by removing the bumps and
creases, lipstick applies more evenly and is less likely to seem blotchy.
Full-bodied lips come from using a slightly darker lip liner around than the
lipstick selected. Improve the richness of a shade and longevity of the color by
filling in the entire lip area with liner before applying lipstick. Prevent
lipstick from moving to areas it does not belong with a coat of lip moisturizer
or lip gloss. A plumper pout can be simulated by only applying a high sheen
gloss on the middle of your lips, directly where your finger crosses if you were
to motion someone to be silent.

Finishing Touches
Blush should never be applied only to the cheeks.
Brush it liberally along the cheek bones, upper forehead, the narrow of the
nose, and lightly on chin to create a natural bloom. Follow with a loose powder
to "set" the look. Loose powder is an imperative fighter against oil shine and
keeps make up from wandering from your face to your clothing. Save mascara for
your final step to prevent any powder or blush from becoming trapped on your
lashes before it dries. Unless you are going out for the night, stick with brown
or brown/black mascara for a more natural look. Try using mascara more heavily
on the outer third of lashes for a flirty look, or on the bottom lash line to
open eyes up.

Make Up Expiration
Before using and applying make up,
check its condition for quality. Mascara that is constantly clumping the brush
is trash, as it is only going to clump even worse on your eyelashes. Eye shadows
with oil spots in the center from frequent use are likely ripe with bacteria
growth. All make up should be kept out of direct light or heat higher than room
temperature. These products are chemicals, and heat or light exposure can cause
unwanted reactions or experiments with color you never intended! Any sign of
ingredient separation such as watery layer on top, or stratifying pigmentation
also indicates the product should be tossed out. Best rule of thumb is if you
can't remember when you purchased a cosmetic product, then its shelf life is
probably up.

Use these tips in addition to normal make up application techniques to make a
drab look sparkle. Increase the ease of make up selection by remaining within
one brand- you won't have to worry about interactions among products and
complimenting color palettes are more likely to be offered in the same season.
Experimenting with color, products, and designs can open up new make up looks.
Just remember to concentrate on exclusively one or two features at a time. Even
starlets follow this rule- as you glance at any red carpet photo immediately one
feature will pop out screaming "Look at me!" Finally, keep your face looking
simple and natural. Very few people think "My god, that person should wear more
make up." But so often we are all guilty of privately urging a woman to go wash
the make up off her face.

Skin Care...

Articles, tips and reviews on treatments, products and the general
care for acne, rosacea, eczema and more. We also
have information for anti aging, natural and men's
care. Please also be sure to check out our forums to discuss any and
all aspects of the care for you skin including what works best for
you.

Skin Care Tips

Wear a sunblock every day... The primary cause of premature
aging is exposure to the sun without adequate care and protection.
Don't wash your skin too often... Washing strips oil and moisture.
Besides, tap water contains chlorine which causes oxidative damage.
Washing your face twice a day is sufficient. Do not smoke...
Smoking can cause the skin to age prematurely, as well as take on an
unflattering sallow tone. Nicotine will reverse your anti aging
routine quicker than anything else. Wear sunglasses... This
will protect the eyes as well as the delicate skin around them. Take
care in checking the products label and make sure they provide UVA and
UVB protection. Warm water over hot... When bathing choose warm
water over hot. It is not as drying and is more natural. Get ample
sleep... Most of the body's repair and rejuvenation occurs while
you sleep. Follow a nightly regimen... Apply products 1 hour
before bedtime to allow ample time to penetrate the skin. Exercise
regularly... It increases the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the
skin, which will give skin a natural, healthy glow. Choose products
carefully... Everyone's skin is different, so try several to see
which products work best for you and which produce an anti effect.
Never sleep with makeup... Sleeping with makeup is not natural for
your skin. It may also have an adverse effect with your anti aging
routine.

Adult Acne

Acne that is contracted during adulthood, specifically after eighteen years
old is considered adult acne. It commonly appears during the early twenties to
even late forties and fifties. Women are the ones frequently affected by adult
acne, also known as post-adolescent acne. Hormones are the obvious cause of
adult acne since there is no definite pattern to its occurrence as compared to
the teenage variety of acne vulgaris. Adolescent girls are often conscious of
the growth of this skin condition, especially during their menstrual cycle,
although the acne that forms during adulthood comes and goes more easily than
the ones contracted during the teenage years.

The appearance of post-adolescent acne differs from that of teenage
acne:
Blackheads and whiteheads (comedones) are less commonly
seen.
Breakouts are usually mild to moderate.
Significant scarring is
unusual.

Lesions more often appear on the lower cheek, the chin, and along and below
the jaw line. Although some women may have breakouts on the chest and back, most
have blemishes exclusively on the face.

Papules, also known as pimples, zits, bumps, pustules, and small nodules are
the most common composition of breakouts. Papules are skin inflammatory
elevations that are not suppurative while the pustules are also inflammatory
elevations, but are filled with pus. The pustules and papules can be classified
as deep or superficial. Superficial papules are those located on the skin
surface. The deep papules are described to be palpable, and come from under the
skin, since these are probably inflammations that are trapped underneath the
skin's surface.

Nodules are described as large papules or cysts. They are firm tender lumps
that stay on for several weeks or even months. The largest growth that they can
be is about an inch and when healed can leave a noticeable scar. Luckily,
nodules are rarely develop in women with adult acne.

There is no exact diagnosis for adult-onset acne since it can be easily
confused by a health care provider with other acne-like disorders like rosacea,
pseudofolliculitis barbae, keratosis pilaris, and
endocrinopathy:
Rosacea: Symptoms of rosacea include facial lesions
that consist of acnelike red papules and pustules. Moreover, both rosacea and
acne can appear together.
Endocrinopathy: Sometimes what appears to be
a simple case of acne vulgaris or adult-onset acne can be due to an underlying
hormonal abnormality, called endocrinopathy. At times like this, acne may be
difficult to get under control, and other measures such as blood tests to look
for higher or lower than normal hormone levels should be evaluated by your
doctor.

Women with adult acne do not have levels of androgen that are elevated but
may have a amplified response to androgen in its normal levels and to
progesterone, a female hormone, although to a much lower degree. On the other
hand, estrogen, another main hormone of females, produces an opposite effect on
acne production by depressing its release.

Other than the major hormones of women, adult acne may be caused and enhanced
by the intake of pills containing hormones and drugs that have hormonal effects
like those seen in oral contraceptive medications, food products, steroids and
allergy medications.

Chemical Peel

Skin is a dynamic, growing organ. Every day cells divide at the basal layer
of the epidermis and begin their journey upward to the uppermost layer, the
stratum cornea. As new cells continue to grow, old cells from the stratum cornea
slough off. This exfoliation
of cells from the stratum cornea is a normal daily event.

Chemical peeling is basically an accelerated form of exfoliation induced by
the use of a chemical agent. Very light peeling agents induce a faster sloughing
of the cells in the stratum cornea, whereas deeper peeling agents create
necrosis and inflammation in the epidermis, papillary dermis, or reticular
dermis.

Chemical peeling creates changes in the skin through three
mechanisms:
Stimulation of the epidermal growth through removal of the
stratum cornea. Even very light peels that do not create necrosis of the "living
epidermis" can induce the epidermis to thicken.
Destruction of specific
layers of damaged skin. By destroying the layers and replacing them with more
"normalized" tissue, a better cosmetic result is achieved. This is especially
true in the treatment of pigmentation abnormalities and actinic
keratoses.
Introduction of inflammatory reaction deeper in the tissue than
the necrosis induced by the peeling agent. Activation of the mediators of
inflammation is able to induce production of new collagen and ground substance
in the dermis. Epidermal wounds are capable of inducing deposition of collagen
and glycosaminoglycans in the dermis.

Because deeper peels involve a greater risk of complication and a longer
period of recovery, or downtime, the goal is to create as little necrosis as
possible while inducing as much new tissue formation as possible. This is the
concept behind repetitive superficial and medium depth peels. They have low
risk, but they create cumulative benefits that far exceed the results of on
lighter peel.

Levels of Peels

Very superficial (exfoliation): These peels thin or remove the stratum
corneum and do not create a wound below the stratum granulosum.

Superficial (epidermal): These peels create necrosis of part of all of
the epidermis, anywhere from the stratum granulosum to the basal cell layer.

Medium (papillary dermal): These peels create necrosis of the
epidermis and part or all of the papillary dermis.

Deep (reticular dermal): These peels create necrosis of the epidermis
and papillary dermis, which extends into the reticular
dermis.

Classification of Peeling Agents

Very Superficial: Glycolic acid 30% to 50% applied briefly (1 to 2
minutes)
Jessner's solution applied in 1 to 3 coats
Low-concentration
resorcinol 20% to 30% applied briefly (5 to 10 minutes)

Superficial: Glycolic acid 50% to 70% applied for a variable time (2
to 20 minutes)
Jessner's solution applied in 4 to 10 coats
Resorcinol 40%
to 50% applied for 30 to 60 minutes.
TCA 10% to 30%

Medium Depth: Glycolic acid 70% applied for a variable time (3 to 30
minutes)
TCA 35% to 50%
Augmented TCA (Jessner's solution plus TCA 35%,
glycolic acid 70% plus TCA 35%)

Deep: Phenol 88%
Baker Gordon Phenol Formula

Complications of a Chemical Peel

Some of the reported complications from getting a chemical peel
are:
Premature Peeling
Infection
Postinflammatory
Infection
Hypopigmentation
Allergic
Reactions
Scabbing
Scarring
Ecchymoses
Acneform Eruptions
Tears
Dripping Onto the Neck

The cost of a chemical peel is determined by depth, location, and type.

Dry Skin Care

Dehydration is the loss of water in the body, sometimes severe enough to
cause shock since the human body is composed of seventy five percent water. To
address this problem you first need to know its main cause. Several factors like
the environment, weather, health situation, or lifestyle is making the skin dry.
Some of them are easily remedied and others will take more time and effort.

To avoid dehydration, you should drink at least eight glasses of water a day,
approximately 64 ounces of water, more in really hot weather. If you do not get
enough water in the body, dehydration may set in. The eight glasses do not
include other beverages you drink during the day, such as tea, coffee, milk,
soda or juice. These beverages should be limited in intake since some of them
may further dehydrate your skin and contribute to other skin conditions, such as
acne.

Unnatural air conditioning from home or office heating and cooling systems
keeps the air dry by removes moisture from your skin. Room humidifiers can be
employed to keep air moist. Humidifiers can also be installed on the home
furnace to help retain moisture in the atmosphere of the home. Installing such
can be a bit expensive but helpful in avoiding dry skin especially in
places with dry climate such as the Midwest states. A helpful tip in keeping the
house humid is to fill several pots with water and place it in strategic places
in the house. They need to be refilled when the level of water becomes low.

Living in a dry climate, such as Colorado, Alaska, Utah, Arizona, and
elsewhere. You can't make the air outside more humid, but you can use
humidifiers indoors. Fill a pottery crock with water and place several around
your house. Refill when the water has evaporated.

Excessive use of exfoliants can also dry out the skin, making it reddish and
rough. Treatment is just to decrease the frequency of use of the exfoliant. Use
scrub exfoliants with polyurethane beads or cornmeal since this does not dry out
the skin. Also, the excessive use of topical medications prescribed for the skin
like Retin-A and
hydroquinone can also cause inflammation of the skin. Use should be cut down to
every three days until the skin becomes normal.

Overuse of topical prescription medications for skin, such as Retin-A,
benzoyl peroxide, or hydroquinone. They can make the skin dry, red, and
inflamed. Cut back on use to every other day or every third day until your skin
normalizes and redness is healed.

Before using any skin care product on yourself, you should try to consult a
skin expert or a certified skin technician. Since there are a lot of skin care
products in the market today, you should always test what will work best on
your skin. If it feels too dry or flaking occurs, then it probably isn't the
best product for you. Foundations used either powder or fluid, should nourish
the skin, and not cause it to dry up. It will help to know the type of facial
skin you have, if either oily or dry, to be able to choose the right foundation
for your skin type.

Using foundation or powder that is too drying for your skin. If your skin
feels tight at midday, consider switching your foundation or powder to one with
more moisture and less oil absorption.

Salon treatments are a delight to indulge in. But too much of a good thing
can lead to its destruction. Treatments at a salon should be done every six
weeks, at the least, especially for skin peels. Consult your aesthetician for
suggestions on the proper skin regimen for you.

There are several medications that can lead to dehydration. If these
medications are not really necessary for your body, like if it is just a
supplement and not for the cure of an underlying illness, then stop using it. If
this is not possible, then just try to avoid other causes of skin
dehydration.

Some illnesses can also lead to skin dehydration like flu, and cancer. Flu
discourages water retention thus leading to dehydration. Cancer treatments, like
chemotherapy and radiation treatments can also dehydrate the skin. The best
thing to do is to keep your skin hydrated even when sick by drinking lots of
fluids.

Travel by plane can also cause your skin to get dehydrated. Since the cabin
air is drier, especially at a height of thirty thousand feet, moisturizer should
be applied before the plane takes off. Spritzing your face with a toner solution
that contains humectant or much simpler, purified water, can help moisturize
your skin during flights.

Pollution also plays a role in skin dehydration. You can either opt to stop
pollution or just take care of your own skin by following the proper and
prescribed skin regimen for you regularly.

Drinking alcohol also leads to dehydration since alcohol is a diuretic.
Diuretics draw water from the body, and lower the water level in the body. A
hang over is usually the result of dehydration of the body. If you are prone to
dry skin, alcoholic drinks should be avoided. Smoking also produces the same
effect on the body. Even if you are just the recipient of second hand smoke, it
can still cause dehydration. Therefore to avoid dehydration, stop smoking.

Smoking. Smoking dries out the body both internally and externally. This
affects both smokers and people subject to second hand smoke. The only solution
is to stop smoking.

Drinking sodas, either the regular kind or the diet ones can result in
dehydration. These types of drinks have sodium as their ingredient which causes
acidity. Avoid sodas and increase your intake of purified water. Carbonated
water has dissolved carbon dioxide in its composition, which is also highly
acidic, so avoid other bubbly drinks as well.

A good sleep during the night helps greatly in maintaining moisture in the
skin. At least six to eight hours of sleep is needed for the body to function at
its peak. Avoid eating starches, white sugar, junk food, french fries, and
potato chips since this may also lead to skin dehydration.

There are still several causes that may lead to skin dehydration, all of them
seen in our daily routine. If only people are aware of this, then complaints of
dry skin can be avoided. Our modern and carefree lifestyle contributes to this
skin condition. It is only by changing our regular habits that we can avoid
having dry skin. After changing our lifestyle and environment, here are several
tips on how to take care of your skin.

Dry Skin Treatment

After you go to work on the lifestyle and environmental changes suggested,
it's time to go to work on your skin. Follow these suggestions:

Correcting dehydrated skin begins with faithfully completing your daily skin
care ritual. Be sure to cleanse, tone, and moisturize twice a day- morning and
evening.

Exfoliate
gently and regularly using mild alpha hydroxyl acids to dissolve dead skin cells
that buildup in the skin because of its dryness and keratinization. Improvement
of the skin's natural moisturizing factor can be achieved by the use of lactic
acid, squalene, glycerine, and urea treatments. For special treatment for your
skin, a hydrating mask can be applied to make the skin remain moist but make
sure that it will not unintentionally dry the skin.

For a special skin treatment, apply a hydrating mask that stays moist on the
skin. Be sure your mask isn't intended to actually dry while on the skin.

Use sunscreen with
the right sun protection factor and moisturizer
when going outdoors. Select a foundation that keeps moisture in place like those
that contain glyconucleopeptides, silicone, or silica. Drink fish oil capsules
that contain essential fatty acids, or flax seed oil, every day. They will make
your skin soft and supple. A dosage of 10 capsules or 2 tablespoons can suffice.
Eating five to ten servings of vegetables and fruits daily with each meal also
helps in hydrating the skin.

Choose a foundation that seals in moisture, such as one that contains
silicone, silica, or glyconucleopeptides.

Take essential fatty acids, those found in fish oil capsules or flax seed
oil, every day. Take about 10 capsules or 2 tablespoons. They will make your
skin soft and supple. Eat 5 to 10 servings of vegetables and fruits dailt, or at
least 2 with each meal.

Electrolytes should also be balanced to help regulate the hydration levels of
the body. These can be found in fruits like bananas and oranges instead of so
called energy drinks like Gatorade since it is composed of a lot of sugar and
artificial ingredients.

Skin Care Treatments

Thank goodness, most skin conditions are only temporary. But that doesn't
mean you don't want to correct them as quickly as possible. We hope the
following articles will help you with treating, and caring for your skin. And
also help with making decisions on what treatments may be right and which may be
wrong for your skin.

Dermabrasion
Going through puberty
with severe acne can be very traumatic. Acne is bad, but one of the worst things
about cystic acne is the scars it leaves behind. Why live with scars and the
emotional trauma they bring?...

Scabies Treatment
Scabies is a
common itchy skin condition caused by a microscopic mite known as Sarcoptes
scabei. No matter what you call it, the resulting rash, pimple-like irritations,
and intense itching can leave you miserable...

Rosacea Treatment
Rosacea
seems like a mysterious condition, especially if you have it. The very
treatments that a person would normally use for breakouts or acne won't work for
rosacea. In fact, they can aggravate the condition and make it worse...

Psoriasis Treatment
Psoriasis
affects 80 million people worldwide. At least two per cent of people have the
skin condition to a degree, whether it's in one toe nail or over most of the
surface of the skin. It's caused by acceleration in the skin's replacement
process...

Accutane
Accutane or Isotretinoin is
very effective because of it has the ability to target specific areas at the
root of acne. Normally accutane is prescribed after all other treatments have
failed. Accutane is prescription only and can only be prescribed by a doctor or
dermatologist...

Thermage
Thermage also know as a thermal
lift will give you many of the same benefits of a surgical face lift. It will
also renew the texture of your skin by creating new and denser collagen,
creating an increase in the thickness of your skin...

Eczema Treatment
Eczema is a
broad term for a number of inflammatory skin diseases with the most prominent
being Atopic Dermatitis. Eczema is not curable per se so treatments are designed
to bring relief or to put the disease into temporary remission...

Electrolysis
Electrolysis is a very
popular option for people looking to permanently remove unwanted body hair. The
process works by using electricity to destroy the hair's growth center,
preventing it from growing again. Invented over 100 years ago to remove ingrown
eyelash hairs, electrolysis has endured the test of time and continues to be one
of the most effective methods for removing unwanted hair...

Laser Hair Removal
You are
most likely to be successful with laser hair removal if you have light skin and
dark hair. If you have light skin and light hair, ask for a laser removal
treatment that combines radio frequency waves with pulsed light. If you have
darker skin and dark hair, laser hair removal is more likely to cause skin
discoloration and dark pigmentation...

Chemical Peel
Skin is a dynamic,
growing organ. Every day cells divide at the basal layer of the epidermis and
begin their journey upward to the uppermost layer, the stratum cornea. As new
cells continue to grow, old cells from the stratum cornea slough off. This
exfoliation of cells from the stratum cornea is a normal daily event...

TCA Chemical
Peel
Trichloroacetic (TCA) has become the gold standard of chemical
peeling agents. It has been well studied, it is versatile in its ability to
create peels of different depths, it is stable, inexpensive, and nontoxic. TCA
is a chemical cauterant, which coagulates proteins in the skin. This is
presumably the basis for the formation of the white frost seen when TCA is
applied to the skin. The deeper the peel performed with TCA, the faster and more
intensely white the frost...

Glycolic Acid Peel
Alpha
hydroxy acids (AHAs) are a group of organic acids, some of which are derived
from fruits, hence their name "fruit acids". Despite the fact that glycolic acid
can be found in sugar cane, the glycolic acid used in your practice is not
derived from processing sugar cane. It is created in a laboratory from chemical
reagents, that is, bubbling carbon monoxide through...

Facials for Skin
Conditions
A good time to schedule a facial is when you're
experiencing temporary skin conditions, such as congestion or breakout. In fact,
it's great to schedule facials every month for your skin, regardless of its
condition. Inform your skin care specialist of your needs, because the standard
facial for your skin type needs to be modified to help correct your condition...

Facial Skin Care
Reading
through a list of facial offerings at a salon or spa can be confusing. There are
literally thousands of different types of facials. You'll find rejuvenating,
purifying, balancing, oxygen, European, deep cleansing, alpha-beta peels, and
many more. To tell the truth, it's sometimes confusing to know what to ask
for...

Oxygen Facials
Your skin receives
benefits from oxygen every time you breathe. And since the air around you is
composed of 18 percent oxygen, you receive adequate oxygen to sustain life and
remain healthy. Your skin benefits from the very oxygen you breathe...

Light Therapy
Using light is
helpful for some people in correcting the skin conditions of psoriasis and acne.
You can purchase light therapy equipment for home use, or visit a salon or
dermatologist for light treatments. The lights used in light therapy, for
psoriasis stimulate natural sunlight, so it comes as sun exposure...

Facial Exercisers
The devices
give you a non-surgical face-lift by using light electrical currents to
passively contract the muscles of the face and neck. The contractions cause the
muscles to tighten, as if through exercise. Facial exercisers are widely
available for home use through the internet and infomercials...

Photorejuvenation
Systems
Also known as Foto-Facial Rejuvenation with Intense Pulsed
Light ( IPL ), this procedure is noninvasive and can correct skin concerns such
as pigmentation, age spots, very fine lines, sun damage, and can improve skin
texture. But that's not all...

Laser Resurfacing
Consider this
treatment only if you have severe wrinkling, significant abnormal pigmentation,
or deep acne scars. Laser resurfacing is a medical procedure that's invasive and
requires downtime for healing. As it resurfaces the skin, the laser burns away
outer layers. This triggers the fibroblasts that produce collagen to replace
what's been burned off...

Microdermabrasion
Think of
microdermabrasion as polish taken to the extreme. It's a deep skin scrub
performed using finely ground mineral crystals. You can have microdermabrasion
done at a salon and intense microdermabrasion performed at a doctor's office.
You can also purchase a home use microdermabrasion machine and perform this
treatment for yourself. The machine is far more gentle than those used by
professionals...

Botox
Botox injections are seemingly a
miracle for erasing furrows between the eyebrows and the nasal labial folds and
corners of the mouth. Botox is purified botulinum bacteria. This is the same
bacteria that causes severe and often fatal form of food poisoning. The
difference is that the bitulinum bacteria in Botox are a purified form that
won't cause illness...

A Facial Suited to Your
Skin Type
Receiving a facial means that the skin care technician
knows your skin type. Each skin type requires specifically tailored treatments.
The following recommendations are for skin that isn't affected by a more serious
skin condition...

Collagen Injections
Collagen injections
take mere moments to perform but can take years from your face. Collagen is a
natural protein that provides texture, resilience and shape to your skin and
face. The collagen used for facial injections comes from human tissue as well as
bovine (cow) tissue...

Restylane
The FDA recently approved
Restylane for injection to correct moderate to severe facial folds and wrinkles.
It's made from biodegradable, nonanimal, and stabilized hyaluronic acid, which
is found in human skin tissue. Hyaluronic acid naturally provides volume and
fullness to the skin. It can hold 1,000 times its weight in water, but its
presence decreases as a person ages...

Retin A
Retin-A is the trade name for
retinoic acid. The topical form of this synthetic derivative of vitamin A is not
to be confused with vitamin A which is taken by mouth. Topical Retin-A was
developed in the late 1960's and is used for external application only...

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a scrub for the skin to penetrate the deep pores using
finely ground mineral crystals. It is usually done at a salon although an
intensive treatment should be done in the doctor's office. A microdermabrasion
machine is also available for use at home to allow you to do the treatment for
yourself. There are fewer risks involved since the machine is gentler than those
used by professionals. Some skin care treatments offer exfoliating scrubs that
also contain mineral crystals. They are called microdermabrasion scrubs, but in
reality are still scrubs for exfoliation since they cannot produce the same
results.

Your skin will improve temporarily with this treatment since it does not act
on removing deeply colored pigmentation. On the other hand, this procedure can
help minimize the appearance of fine lines and bring up the turnover rate of
skin cells. This procedure is not that labor extensive, needing only 20 to 30
minutes of your time to make you skin healthy and glowing. The recommended
number of treatments is five to ten times at two to three week intervals.
Results are noticeable usually after the fifth session.

A light glycolic peel
can also be done by your aesthetician without having the redness or
inflammation. It is frequently done during the lunch hour thus coining the term
"lunchtime peel".

Microdermabrasion, if prolonged, may lead to redness and irritation,
especially when done with a light glycolic peel. Mistakes can also occur when
the skin care technician gets too aggressive with the procedure. Open lesions
and scarring may occur. Microdermabrasion should not be used if you are prone to
cold sores. Herpes simplex complications can also be triggered by
microdermabrasion so it is contraindicated. It should also never be used on open
sores or blemishes. If you plan to do the procedure at home using your own
device, make sure that you are gentle with your skin and go slowly to get the
feel of the instrument as well as your skin. Knowing your skin type will aid you
in how you use the microdermabrasion device.

Its advantages include having a fresher and more radiant skin after several
sessions, being able to avail of the procedure either at the salon or at the
comfort of your home, and when it is done properly and with a gentle touch, it
is quite safe. On the other hand, when it is used by someone with a heavy hand,
scarring and lesions may occur. It may also trigger a herpes simplex outbreak
when the instruments get in contact with a patient's lesions. It is also
temporary and requires much maintenance to get results.

Microdermabrasion has a lot of benefits especially when used properly. It
should be avoided when the skin becomes red, flaky or dry after use. Following
the correct directions will help avoid any complication when doing the procedure
at home.

According to product claims, microdermabrasion:
Reduces sun
damage.
Brightens complexions.
Is safe.
Eliminates early signs of
aging.
Improves dull, oily, or leathery skin textures.
Contracts large
pores.
Reduces fine lines.
Smoothes mild pigmentation
irregularities.
Requires no downtime.

The Pros:
After four to five sessions, the skin will appear fresher and
more radiant.
The procedure can be done at home or at the salon.
It's safe
when used properly and gently.

The Cons:
Aggressive use can lead to scarring and open lesions.
The
procedure can trigger a herpes simplex outbreak.
It's temporary and requires
maintenance to sustain results.
Microdermabrasion can be beneficial when used
correctly. Stop using it if you skin gets red, flaky, or dry. For home use,
follow the directions carefully and keep in mind that with this type of
procedure, less if often more.

Acne Control

Often the result of hormonal changes in the body, acne is common condition
ranging in severity from occasional pimples to serious cystic acne that requires
the intervention of the dermatologist. If
you suffer from acne, you may experience pimples around your forehead, nose, and
chin, blackheads, whiteheads, and to a
lesser degree, occasional more serious infections.

Because the symptoms vary widely, there are a number of treatments for acne
ranging from topical over-the-counter ointments to more serious prescription
drugs and laser treatments.

The root cause of acne is a blockage in skin pores and hair follicles that
leads to infection. Hormonal imbalances that result in the overproduction of oil
by the sebaceous glands in the skin worsens the problem, as does the presence of
any bacteria on the skin's surface. The most effective acne treatments
work to reduce the amount of oil on the skin, keep pores and hair follicles open
and clear, and keep affected areas free of bacteria.

Natural Remedies:

Scrubs
Natural methods of treatment include mild scrubs with oatmeal or
other abrasives designed to open clogged pores. They are often combined with
cleansing creams that work to kill bacteria.

Antibacterial Agents
Many ointments, balms, and lotions sold to treat acne
are mild antibacterial agents designed to kill bacterial colonies and keep them
from reforming. Tea tree oil, salicylic acid, and sulfur have excellent
antibacterial properties and have been used effectively alone and in combination
with other acne treatments.

Skin Repair
Aloe Vera, vitamin A, and vitamin E are useful in healing
blemishes, repairing skin cells, and reducing inflammation. They are also used
in combination with antibacterial agents to heal skin after an acne
outbreak.

Treat Oily Skin
Preparations used to reduce the amount of oil on the skin
often contain benzoyl peroxide, an antibacterial and drying agent. There are
also non-prescription masks and peels designed to remove excess oil from the
skin.

Mild scrubs, antibacterials, drying agents, and skin conditioners work
together to open clogged pores and keep skin healthy and clear of infection. For
minor skin problems they are very effective, and regular treatment using these
products will reduce acne flare-ups.

Resistant Acne:

Cosmetic Procedures
More resistant acne often responds to chemical peels and
abrasive techniques like micro-dermabrasion.
These techniques are administered by a dermatologist in his office and can also
be effective in reducing the acne
scarring that may result from prolonged acne conditions.

Vitamin A Derivatives (Retin-A)
Therapies using concentrated vitamin A
derivatives like Retin-A have had success
in treating whiteheads, blackheads, and cystic acne. Used topically over a
period of weeks, vitamin A derivatives increase skin production and help in
keeping skin pores clear.

Oral Contraceptives
For women, often oral contraceptives have the side
benefit of having a positive impact on problem skin.

Laser Treatment
Light therapy is a
very effective treatment for acne. Reaching deep into the skin, lasers kill
bacteria, help improve the skin's texture, and are effective at helping to
reduce oil production.

Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin(Accutane) is reserved for
the most serious skin conditions. Usually administered in pill form, it works
internally to help reduce the skin's oil production and combat infection.
Available only through prescription, it can have serious side effects, so
discuss any treatment plan carefully with your doctor.

Acne can be a complicated condition, and it may require some trial and error
to determine what type of treatment is going to work best for you. Even the most
severe forms of acne respond to treatment, and with some experimentation you
will discover a method that will provide the results that you are looking for.
In the meantime, keep your skin as clean as you can, and never be tempted to
squeeze blemishes. Although satisfying, damaging your skin invariably prolongs
the healing process and can lead to deep and permanent scars.

Dry Skin

Dehydration is the loss of water in the body, sometimes severe enough to
cause shock since the human body is composed of seventy five percent water. To
address this problem you first need to know its main cause. Several factors like
the environment, weather, health situation, or lifestyle is making the skin dry.
Some of them are easily remedied and others will take more time and effort.

Nowadays, you see millions of Americans that have dry skin. There are also
numerous products being invented to address this situation concerning the skin.
Genetically speaking, there is no such thing as dry skin. You may either have
dehydrated skin or an oil skin type which is also hydrated or dehydrated.

Mostly everyone is afflicted by dehydrated skin. When you feel your skin and
it is dry and tight, and your skin tone is ashen and dull, you most probably are
dehydrated.

Unfortunately, the moisturizers and treatments claiming to alleviate dry skin
do nothing to cure it. To be able to correct dehydrated skin, a drastic change
in lifestyle and environment is required.

What does a dehydrated skin feel like? It is usually dry to the touch, itchy,
with flaky patches and rough spots, and blotchy patches when you look in the
mirror. Your skin tone is dull and pale. The skin loses its elasticity wherein
when you apply a bit of pressure on the skin, it does not revert back to its
original state.

When you leave your skin dehydrated for a long period of time, keratinization
occurs. Take for example the feet. The skin on the bottom of your feet is
subjected to much heat, friction and dirt. The dead skin cells that build up on
the surface of your skin forms a coat covering it, making it nearly impossible
for moisturizer to reach your skin. Your skin will further get dehydrated. Then
keratinization occurs with breakouts since your skin is badly in need of
water.

Fortunately, dehydration is easily treated and is very temporary. The skin
just needs to rehydrate and vitamins given to be able to have healthy skin.

Related Articles:
Dry Skin Care

Male Hair Loss - The Types

Men lose their hair in several ways. The most common are:
Receding
Hair Line (Thinning Hair)
Centralised loss on the top back of the head
(vertex)
Diffuse thinning where hair thins all over without losing the shape
of the hair line

The Norwood scale is the most common way of identifying which type of hair
loss, and the level of hair loss you are suffering. It also shows you what is
the likely outcome should your hair loss remain untreated. It is also good once
you have started treatment to evaluate the results of that treatment to see if
the treatment has been a success or not.

Different treatments are better at treating different types of hair loss and
we will examine those in the next section - Types Of Hair Loss
Treatments.

Extent of Male Hair Loss

The extent of your current hair loss is probably the most deciding factor on
how well you will respond to treatment. A practically bald scalp with only
microscopic hair follicles will not respond well to any treatment especially if
it has been that way for several years. If your hair has only just started to
succumb to male patterned baldness then you have an excellent chance of treating
the condition successfully.

How Long Have You Suffered Hair Loss?

The longer you wait to treat your hair loss the harder it will be to achieve
good results. This is the hard and fast rule. The process of losing your hair
takes years to progress so the sooner you do something about it the better your
chances of achieving a successful outcome. Fighting hair loss is about
prevention as well as reversal and this should always be understood. If you are
a young man in your twenties then you have a great chance of having a full head
of hair in the next 20-30 years as the balding process has not had as long to
progress yet. However, don't lose hope if you have been suffering from hair loss
for more than 5 years - a successful combination of treatments can reverse this
process. We will examine these treatments in the next step to this guide - Types of Hair Loss Treatment

Types of Hair Loss Treatment

Now you should have identified the type of hair loss you are suffering;
receding hair line, vertex loss or thinning hair. You should also be able to
identify the extent of your hair loss from the Norwood Scale above. The next
step is to examine the types of treatments available to you.Click here to proceed to
"Types of Hair Loss Treatments" page

---

Female Hair Loss

As with any change in your body, hair loss may be a symptom
of an underlying disease such as anemia or hormonal imbalance. If hair loss
perists or worsens you should consult your dermatologist who can refer you to
the appropriate physican. Blood tests can be useful but frequently they will not
provide any more information than can be provided through a medical examination;
your physican or specialist will advise you accordingly.

Evaluating Female Hair Loss

There is a visual representation of female hair loss that will allow you to
assess your own situation. It is called the Ludvig Scale of Hair Loss.

You can now compare your hair loss to that Ludvig scale above. It
is also useful in understanding where you fall within this scale to assess any
treatments you might participate in and their levels of success.

Preparation before Visiting Your Doctor/Specialist

Before you visit your Medical Practitioner/Specialist you should understand
you need to prepare the facts for him/her so that they can refer you accordingly
and your Alopecia can be diagnosed properly. These two things are:

Clinical History
- How long have you been suffering this
hair loss?
- Is the hair falling out in full lengths or breaking off (partial
hairs)?
- Have you recently commenced the menopause or given birth?
- What
medications are you on if any?
- Do you have a family history of diabetes,
asthma, arthritis, vitiligo, anemia lupus or Addison's disease?

Blood Tests
There are a series of blood tests that maybe
required to help diagnose your Alopecia. The results need to be analysed by a
specialist and your scalp examined accordingly. Your physician will be able to
advise you if you need these tests.
- Hormone levels (DHEAS, Testosterone,
Androstenedione, Prolactin, Follicular Stimulating Hormone, and Leutinizing
Hormone)
- Serum Iron, Serum Ferritin, TIBC (Total Iron Binding
capacity)
- Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
- VDRL
- Complete Blood
Count

Solutions to Female Hair Loss

Again, we need to reiterate that female hair loss should be examined by a
specialist in the field and all the tests should be done before treatment
begins. Once you have the results you can look to treatments. If your levels are
normal or you want to kickstart your hair growth then Click here to proceed to
"Types of Hair Loss Treatments" page

Hair Loss

People who notice hair falling out, thinning, or appearing in large amounts on
their comb or brush should consult a dermatologist. With correct diagnosis, many
people with hair loss can be helped. A dermatologist will evaluate a patient's
hair-loss problem to find the cause so they can determine whether the problem
will resolve on its own or medical treatment is needed.

Normal Hair Growth

• About 90 percent of the hair is growing at any one time, and the growth
  phase lasts between two and six years.


• Ten percent of the hair is in a resting phase that lasts two to three
  months, and at the end of its resting stage the hair is shed.


• When a hair is shed, a new hair from the same follicle replaces it and the
  growing cycle starts again.


• Scalp hair grows about one-half inch per month, but as people age their rate
  of hair growth slows.


• Most hair shedding is due to the normal hair cycle, and losing 50 to 100
  hairs per day is expected and is no cause for alarm.

Causes of Excessive Hair Loss

Excess hair loss can have many different causes. Hair will regrow
spontaneously in some forms of hair loss. Other forms can be treated
successfully by a dermatologist. For the several forms of hair loss for which
there is no cure at present, there is research in progress that holds promise
for the future. Talk to your dermatologist about the best options for you.

Improper Chemical Treatments

Many men and women use chemical treatments on their hair, including dyes,
tints, bleaches, straighteners, and permanent waves. These treatments rarely
damage hair if they are done correctly. However, the hair can become weak and
break if any of these chemicals are used too often. If hair becomes brittle from
chemical treatments, it is best to stop until the hair grows out.

Hereditary Thinning or Balding

Also known as androgenetic alopecia, this is the most common cause of hair
loss, and can be inherited from either the mother's or father's side of the
family. Women with this trait develop thinning hair, but do not become
completely bald. Hereditary hair loss can start in one's teens, twenties, or
thirties. While there is no cure, medical treatments are available that may help
some people, including:

• Minoxodil, a lotion applied to the scalp twice a day, which can be used by
  men and women


• Finasteride, an oral prescription medication used by men only which blocks
  the formation of the active male hormone in the hair follicle

Alopecia Areata

The cause of alopecia areata is unknown, but it is thought to be an
autoimmune condition (the body makes antibodies to its own hair) that may affect
children or adults of any age. The affected persons are generally in excellent
health. This type of hair loss usually causes totally smooth, round patches
about the size of a coin or larger. Although rare, it can result in complete
loss of scalp and body hair. In most cases the hair regrows; however,
dermatologists treat many people with this condition in order to make hair
regrow faster.

Treatment includes:

• cortisone injections in the scalp where the hair loss occurred


• topical medications


• a special kind of light treatment


• pills

Telogen Effluvium

Illness, stress, and other factors can cause too many hairs to enter the
resting (telogen) phase of the hair growth cycle, and it produces a dramatic
increase in the amount of hair shed (effluvium), usually without bald patches.
In many cases, telogen effluvium usually resolves in a few months on its own.
Causes of telogen effluvium include:

• High Fever, Severe Infection, Severe Flu


• Major Surgery/Chronic Illness


• Thyroid Disease


• Inadequate Protein in Diet


• Low Serum Iron


• Medications


• Birth Control Pills


• Cancer Treatments

Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm)

Caused by a fungal infection, tinea capitis is characterized by patches of
scaling that can spread and result in broken hair, redness, swelling, and even
oozing on the scalp. This contagious disease is most common in children, and
oral medication will cure it.

Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling)

Children, and sometimes adults, will twist or pull their hair, brows, or
lashes until they come out. Oftentimes this is just a bad habit that gets better
when the harmful effects of that habit are explained. Sometimes hair pulling can
be a coping response to unpleasant stresses and occasionally is a sign of a
serious psychological problem.

Cicatricial (Scarring) Alopecia

This rare disorder can cause patchy hair loss and associated itching and/or
pain. Inflammation around the hair follicle causes damage, scarring, and
permanent hair loss in the affected area. The cause or trigger of cicatricial
alopecia is unknown. Treatment focuses on stopping the spread of
inflammation.

Hair Restoration Surgery

Dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons perform hair restoration surgery to
correct hair loss and create a natural-looking hairline. Patients with
well-defined baldness, thinning hair, and those with limited hair loss due to
scalp injury or burns are generally good candidates for hair replacement
surgery.

The type of hair replacement surgery chosen depends on the extent
and pattern of hair loss. To achieve the best results, a dermatologist may use
one or more of the following procedures:

Hair Transplants

Hair transplant surgery is based on the principle of donor dominance, which
means that hair from healthy donor sites will take root and grow normally when
transplanted into balding, recipient sites. Hair transplantation involves:

• removing small strips of hair-bearing scalp from the back and sides of the
  head, known as the "donor region," which contains hair that will grow throughout
  a lifetime


• repairing the donor region, usually resulting in a very narrow scar which is
  hidden by overlying hair
  


• harvesting strips of hair-bearing scalp and dividing into grafts for
  placement in the balding areas

The amount of coverage varies depending on the extent of baldness and the
specific procedure performed. Within one month, much of the transplanted hair is
shed. About two months later, hair starts to grow and continues to grow at a
normal rate. After six months, the transplanted hairs begin to take on a natural
appearance.

Scalp Reduction

Scalp reduction offers a special benefit to patients with extensive balding.
In this procedure, bald areas are reduced or even eliminated by removing several
inches of the bald skin, then pulling the sides together and suturing them.
Scalp reduction surgery can be performed alone or in conjunction with a hair
transplant.

Scalp Extenders or Tissue Expanders

These devices are inserted under the scalp for about three to four weeks to
stretch hair-bearing areas, and may be used to increase the effectiveness of
scalp reductions. The extender acts like a large rubber band, and the expander
works like a balloon, allowing for an even greater reduction in the balding
area.

For hair restoration surgery, the patient can expect:

• Treatment performed using local anesthesia in the dermatologist's office, an
  ambulatory surgery center, or other outpatient facility.


• To resume their normal activities, avoiding strenuous physical exercise
  until further notified.


• Mild side effects which may include: some swelling and brusing around the
  eyes after two or three days (which can be minimized by ice compresses and
  sleeping in a semi-reclined postion), and some numbness at the donor and
  recipient sites which usually disappears within three months.


• Multiple sessions at various intervals are usually required, and the entire
  process can take months to years to complete.


• As with all surgical procedures, there is always some risk. However,
  complications from the surgical treatment of hair loss are rare and generally
  minimal.

A dermatologist is a physician who specializes in treating the medical,
surgical and cosmetic conditions of the skin, hair and nails. To learn more
about hair loss and hair restoration, log onto www.aad.org or call toll-free (888) 462-DERM (3376) to find
a dermatologist in your area.

To Learn More:
Contact the American Academy of Dermatology
(AAD), which represents almost all dermatologists in the U.S. and has more than
15,000 members worldwide. Most of the Academy's members are board-certified in
dermatology, which means they have completed a three-year residency and passed a
rigorous two-part test administered by the American Board of Dermatology.

Bladness

People who notice hair falling out, thinning, or appearing in large amounts on their comb or brush should consult a dermatologist. With correct diagnosis, many people with hair loss can be helped. A dermatologist will evaluate a patient's hair-loss problem to find the cause so they can determine whether the problem will resolve on its own or medical treatment is needed.

Normal Hair Growth
About 90 percent of the hair is growing at any one time, and the growth phase lasts between two and six years. Ten percent of the hair is in a resting phase that lasts two to three months, and at the end of its resting stage the hair is shed. When a hair is shed, a new hair from the same follicle replaces it and the growing cycle starts again. Scalp hair grows about one-half inch per month, but as people age their rate of hair growth slows. Most hair shedding is due to the normal hair cycle, and losing 50 to 100 hairs per day is expected and is no cause for alarm. Causes of Excessive Hair Loss
Excess hair loss can have many different causes. Hair will regrow spontaneously in some forms of hair loss. Other forms can be treated successfully by a dermatologist. For the several forms of hair loss for which there is no cure at present, there is research in progress that holds promise for the future. Talk to your dermatologist about the best options for you.

Improper Chemical Treatments
Many men and women use chemical treatments on their hair, including dyes, tints, bleaches, straighteners, and permanent waves. These treatments rarely damage hair if they are done correctly. However, the hair can become weak and break if any of these chemicals are used too often. If hair becomes brittle from chemical treatments, it is best to stop until the hair grows out.

Hereditary Thinning or Balding
Also known as androgenetic alopecia, this is the most common cause of hair loss, and can be inherited from either the mother's or father's side of the family. Women with this trait develop thinning hair, but do not become completely bald. Hereditary hair loss can start in one's teens, twenties, or thirties. While there is no cure, medical treatments are available that may help some people, including:

Minoxodil, a lotion applied to the scalp twice a day, which can be used by men and women Finasteride, an oral prescription medication used by men only which blocks the formation of the active male hormone in the hair follicle
Alopecia Areata
The cause of alopecia areata is unknown, but it is thought to be an autoimmune condition (the body makes antibodies to its own hair) that may affect children or adults of any age. The affected persons are generally in excellent health. This type of hair loss usually causes totally smooth, round patches about the size of a coin or larger. Although rare, it can result in complete loss of scalp and body hair. In most cases the hair regrows; however, dermatologists treat many people with this condition in order to make hair regrow faster.



Alopecia Areata

Treatment includes:
cortisone injections in the scalp where the hair loss occurred topical medications a special kind of light treatment pills Telogen Effluvium
Illness, stress, and other factors can cause too many hairs to enter the resting (telogen) phase of the hair growth cycle, and it produces a dramatic increase in the amount of hair shed (effluvium), usually without bald patches. In many cases, telogen effluvium usually resolves in a few months on its own. Causes of telogen effluvium include:

High Fever, Severe Infection, Severe Flu Major Surgery/Chronic Illness Thyroid Disease Inadequate Protein in Diet Low Serum Iron Medications Birth Control Pills Cancer Treatments Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm)
Caused by a fungal infection, tinea capitis is characterized by patches of scaling that can spread and result in broken hair, redness, swelling, and even oozing on the scalp. This contagious disease is most common in children, and oral medication will cure it.

Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling)
Children, and sometimes adults, will twist or pull their hair, brows, or lashes until they come out. Oftentimes this is just a bad habit that gets better when the harmful effects of that habit are explained. Sometimes hair pulling can be a coping response to unpleasant stresses and occasionally is a sign of a serious psychological problem.

Cicatricial (Scarring) Alopecia
This rare disorder can cause patchy hair loss and associated itching and/or pain. Inflammation around the hair follicle causes damage, scarring, and permanent hair loss in the affected area. The cause or trigger of cicatricial alopecia is unknown. Treatment focuses on stopping the spread of inflammation.

Hair Restoration Surgery
Dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons perform hair restoration surgery to correct hair loss and create a natural-looking hairline. Patients with well-defined baldness, thinning hair, and those with limited hair loss due to scalp injury or burns are generally good candidates for hair replacement surgery.



48-year-old male with male pattern baldness



Seven months later after three sessions

The type of hair replacement surgery chosen depends on the extent and pattern of hair loss. To achieve the best results, a dermatologist may use one or more of the following procedures:

Hair Transplants
Hair transplant surgery is based on the principle of donor dominance, which means that hair from healthy donor sites will take root and grow normally when transplanted into balding, recipient sites. Hair transplantation involves:

removing small strips of hair-bearing scalp from the back and sides of the head, known as the "donor region," which contains hair that will grow throughout a lifetime repairing the donor region, usually resulting in a very narrow scar which is hidden by overlying hair
harvesting strips of hair-bearing scalp and dividing into grafts for placement in the balding areas The amount of coverage varies depending on the extent of baldness and the specific procedure performed. Within one month, much of the transplanted hair is shed. About two months later, hair starts to grow and continues to grow at a normal rate. After six months, the transplanted hairs begin to take on a natural appearance.

Scalp Reduction
Scalp reduction offers a special benefit to patients with extensive balding. In this procedure, bald areas are reduced or even eliminated by removing several inches of the bald skin, then pulling the sides together and suturing them. Scalp reduction surgery can be performed alone or in conjunction with a hair transplant.

Scalp Extenders or Tissue Expanders
These devices are inserted under the scalp for about three to four weeks to stretch hair-bearing areas, and may be used to increase the effectiveness of scalp reductions. The extender acts like a large rubber band, and the expander works like a balloon, allowing for an even greater reduction in the balding area.

For hair restoration surgery, the patient can expect:

Treatment performed using local anesthesia in the dermatologist's office, an ambulatory surgery center, or other outpatient facility. To resume their normal activities, avoiding strenuous physical exercise until further notified. Mild side effects which may include: some swelling and brusing around the eyes after two or three days (which can be minimized by ice compresses and sleeping in a semi-reclined postion), and some numbness at the donor and recipient sites which usually disappears within three months. Multiple sessions at various intervals are usually required, and the entire process can take months to years to complete. As with all surgical procedures, there is always some risk. However, complications from the surgical treatment of hair loss are rare and generally minimal. A dermatologist is a physician who specializes in treating the medical, surgical and cosmetic conditions of the skin, hair and nails. To learn more about hair loss and hair restoration, log onto www.aad.org or call toll-free (888) 462-DERM (3376) to find a dermatologist in your area.

To Learn More:
Contact the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), which represents almost all dermatologists in the U.S. and has more than 15,000 members worldwide. Most of the Academy's members are board-certified in dermatology, which means they have completed a three-year residency and passed a rigorous two-part test administered by the American Board of Dermatology.

Log on to the Academy's Web site at www.aad.org and you can:

Locate a dermatologist in your area; Read information on skin conditions, including more than 65 brochures on individual dermatology topics; Get advice about skin cancer prevention and detection, and other ways to care for your skin; and Learn about the latest dermatologic procedures and how to make informed decisions about ha

Disease name and description

Abscess
An abscess is a infection characterized by a
collection of pus underneath a portion of the skin. Bacteria commonly causing
abscesses are Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus. These bacteria enter the
skin through any cracks or injury to the skin.

Acanthosis
Nigricans
Acanthosis nigricans is a condition
characterized by abnormal thickening and darkening of the skin, especially in
body creases. It is most commonly associated with obesity or polycystic ovarian
disease in women; though it can occasionally be found in people who have more
serious underlying health problems or who are taking certain medications.


Acne (Acne
Vulgaris)
Acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is thought
to be caused by multiple factors. Overproduction of a normal oil on the skin,
called sebum, increases under the influence of hormones. This, coupled with
insufficient shedding of exfoliating dead skin cells, plugs hair follicles.


Acne Excoriée

Acne excoriée, also known as "picker's acne,"
results when acne lesions are compulsively squeezed and scratched, resulting in
scabs and scars. It is seen most commonly in adolescent girls and has been
thought to be associated with underlying depression, anxiety, or
emotional problems.

Acne
Keloidalis Nuchae
Acne keloidalis nuchae, also known as keloidal
folliculitis or nuchal keloidal acne, is a chronic skin condition characterized
by inflamed bumps and scars on the back of the neck. Although it is not related
to common acne (acne vulgaris), acne keloidalis nuchae initially appears as
acne-like lesions of inflamed hair follicles (folliculitis) on the nape of the
neck (nuchal area) and, without treatment, can result in large scars (keloids).


Acne Vulgaris

Acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is thought
to be caused by multiple factors. Overproduction of a normal oil on the skin,
called sebum, increases under the influence of hormones. This, coupled with
insufficient shedding of exfoliating dead skin cells, plugs hair follicles.


Acrochordon
(Skin Tag)
A skin tag (acrochordon) is a common, possibly
inherited condition that manifests as small, flesh-colored growths on a thin
stalk. Skin tags are benign lesions that can sometimes become irritated or
traumatized.

Actinic
Cheilitis
Actinic cheilitis, sometimes known as "farmer's
lip" or "sailor's lip," is a precancerous condition related to cumulative
lifetime sun exposure. The lower lip is most often affected. Individuals with
actinic cheilitis often present with complaints of persistent dryness and
cracking of the lips.

Actinic Keratosis (Solar
Keratosis)
Actinic keratoses, also known as solar
keratoses, are small rough or scaly areas of skin due to damage from sun
exposure. Some actinic keratoses can turn into squamous cell skin cancer, so it
is important to perform self-examinations often and catch them early.

Allergic
Contact Dermatitis
Allergic contact dermatitis is a delayed
hypersensitivity reaction (the reaction to the allergen occurs 48–72 hours after
exposure). The most common allergens causing allergic contact dermatitis appear
to be nickel, chromates, rubber chemicals, and neomycin (an antibacterial).


Allergic Contact Dermatitis
(Pediatric)
Allergic contact dermatitis is an allergy to a
substance (the allergen) touching the skin. The reaction occurs 48–72 hours
after exposure. Common allergens are nickel, chromates, rubber chemicals, and
neomycin (an antibacterial medication).

Alopecia
Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition
resulting in hair loss. The immune system of the body mistakenly stops hair
growth for unknown reasons.

Alopecia,
Female Pattern
Female pattern baldness (alopecia) is a form of
hair loss affecting women due to an inherited susceptibility. It is most
commonly noticed after menopause, although it may begin earlier.

Alopecia,
Male Pattern
Male pattern baldness (alopecia), or
androgenetic alopecia, is the patterned balding of a man. Although the condition
may affect both the appearance and self-esteem of some men, one should note that
the condition is not a medical disorder.

Angular
Cheilitis
Angular cheilitis (perlèche) is a chronic
inflammatory condition of the corners of the mouth. Usually associated with a
fungal (Candidal) or bacterial (Staphylococcal) infection, those
affected may also have thrush (oral candidiasis).

Athlete's
Foot (Tinea Pedis)
Tinea pedis, also known as ringworm of the foot
or athlete's foot, is a surface (superficial) fungal infection of the skin of
the foot. The most common fungal disease in humans, athlete's foot, may be
passed to humans by direct contact with infected people, infected animals,
contaminated objects (such as towels or locker room floors), or the soil.


Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), also known as basal
cell epithelioma, is the most common form of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma
usually occurs on sun-damaged skin, especially in light-skinned individuals with
a long history of chronic sun exposure.

Beau's Lines

Beau's lines are horizontal (transverse)
depressions in the nail plate that run parallel to the shape of the white,
moon-shaped portion of the nail bed (lunula) seen at the nail's origin. They
result from a sudden interruption of nail keratin synthesis and grow distally
with the nail plate.

Bedsore
(Decubitus Ulcer)
Bedsores (decubitus ulcers), also known as
pressure sores or ulcers, result from prolonged pressure that cuts off the blood
supply to the skin, causing the skin and other tissue to die.

Birthmark (Congenital Melanocytic
Nevus)
Congenital melanocytic nevus (CMN) is a mole
that is present at birth or shortly thereafter. It is one common type of
birthmark, caused by a cluster of color (pigment) cells in the skin and
sometimes in deeper tissues.

Bite or
Sting, Arthropod
Bites or stings from insects (arthropods) are
very common. Most reactions are mild and result due to an allergic reaction to
either the insect or the toxins injected with the bite or sting.

Bite or Sting, Arthropod
(Pediatric)
Bites or stings from insects (arthropods) are
very common. Most reactions are mild, and symptoms are caused by an allergic
reaction to either the insect or the irritating substances (toxins) the insect
makes and injects along with the bite or sting.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids.
When it involves the outside front of the eyelid, where the eyelashes are
attached, it is called anterior blepharitis. If blepharitis involves the inner
eyelid, it is called posterior blepharitis.

Boils
(Furunculosis)
Boils (furuncles) are painful pus-filled bumps
on the skin resulting from the deep infection of a hair follicle. The infection
is usually caused by a type of bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus
(staph).

Bug Bite or
Sting
Bites or stings from insects (arthropods) are
very common. Most reactions are mild and result due to an allergic reaction to
either the insect or the toxins injected with the bite or sting.

Bug Bite or Sting
(Pediatric)
Bites or stings from insects (arthropods) are
very common. Most reactions are mild, and symptoms are caused by an allergic
reaction to either the insect or the irritating substances (toxins) the insect
makes and injects along with the bite or sting.

Café au Lait Macule
Café au lait macules (CALM) are well-defined
flat areas that are darker in color than the rest of the skin
(hyperpigmented). The term refers to their characteristic even (homogeneous)
color of "coffee with milk," which may be light to dark brown.

Callus
A callus (tyloma) is a thickening of the skin
that occurs in response to excessive, repeated shear or friction forces,
commonly due to constant rubbing of the skin.

Candidiasis

Candidiasis, commonly known as a
yeast infection, is an infection with the common yeast (or fungus) organism,
Candida albicans, which is commonly found in the
environment. Sometimes this yeast lives in the mouth, digestive
(gastrointestinal) tract, and the vagina, along with many kinds of harmless
bacteria, without causing any issues.

Candidiasis, Diaper
Dermatitis
Candida albicans is a type of fungus
normally found in the digestive (gastrointestinal) tract. If your baby is
wearing a moist or blocked up (occluded) diaper, particularly one that is dirty
(has fecal contamination), an inflammatory skin rash (dermatitis) may develop on
the baby's skin.

Candidiasis, Oral (Thrush)
Thrush (oral candidiasis), also known as oral
moniliasis, is a yeast infection of the mouth or throat (the oral cavity). The
yeast that most commonly causes oral candidiasis is Candida albicans.


Canker Sore
(Aphthous Ulcer)
Canker sores (aphthous ulcers), or aphthae, are
the most common cause of periodic (recurring) ulcers inside the mouth and
genital linings (mucous membrane surfaces). Their cause is unknown, but stress,
lack of sleep, trauma, and perhaps some vitamin deficiencies, toothpastes, and
foods can make the condition worse.

Capillaritis

Capillaritis is characterized by leakage of red
blood cells from small, superficial blood vessels that results in pinpoint-like
hemorrhages (petechiae). Capillaritis is frequently found in patients with long
periods of extended standing related to their occupations.

Cataracts
A cataract is any clouding of the human lens.
This clouding can cause a reduction in vision. The lens is composed of protein
and water structured to allow light to clearly pass through. Changes to the
structure of the protein result in a cataract. The changes in vision associated
with a cataract depend upon which part of the lens is affected.

Cellulitis
Cellulitis is an infection of the deeper skin
tissue, which is most often caused by the bacteria Streptococcus or
Staphylococcus. These bacteria are able to invade the skin through small
cracks (fissures) in the skin, causing the sudden appearance of skin redness,
swelling, and the sensation of heat. Cellulitis is often accompanied by fever
and chills.

Chapped Lips
(Cheilitis)
Chapped lips (cheilitis) are lips that appear
dry, scaly, and may have one or more small cracks (fissures). Often, the lips
are sensitive, and there may or may not be redness (erythema) and swelling
(edema) present.

Cheilitis
Chapped lips (cheilitis) are lips that appear
dry, scaly, and may have one or more small cracks (fissures). Often, the lips
are sensitive, and there may or may not be redness (erythema) and swelling
(edema) present.

Cheilitis,
Actinic
Actinic cheilitis, sometimes known as "farmer's
lip" or "sailor's lip," is a precancerous condition related to cumulative
lifetime sun exposure. The lower lip is most often affected. Individuals with
actinic cheilitis often present with complaints of persistent dryness and
cracking of the lips.

Cheilitis, Angular (Perlèche)

Angular cheilitis (perlèche) is a chronic
inflammatory condition of the corners of the mouth. Usually associated with a
fungal (Candidal) or bacterial (Staphylococcal) infection, those
affected may also have thrush (oral candidiasis).

Cherry
Hemangioma
A cherry hemangioma is a small non-cancerous,
red-purple bump on the skin that is typically seen in older adults. It is formed
from a proliferation of dilated small veins.

Chickenpox
(Varicella)
Chickenpox (varicella) is an infectious disease
caused by the varicella zoster virus that goes away on its own. Infection
spreads among humans through fluids from the airways, such as from coughing and
sneezing, with non-infected household members at high risk of becoming infected
as well.

Chlamydial
Infections
Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted
disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, which affects the genital
tract if acquired through vaginal sex, or the mouth or anus if acquired from
oral or anal sex. Chlamydia is spread through unprotected sex with an infected
person; it can also be spread from an infected mother to her baby at birth.


Chondrodermatitis Nodularis
Helicis
Chondrodermatitis nodularis helicis is a common
inflammatory condition of the ear's cartilage and overlying skin. The condition
presents with very tender, small bumps (papules) or rounded lumps (nodules).


Cold Sores (Orofacial
Herpes)
Herpes simplex infection of the mouth and
face, known as orofacial herpes simplex, herpes labialis, cold sores, or fever
blisters, is a common, recurrent skin condition associated with infection by the
herpes simplex virus (HSV).

Common Wart
Warts are growths of the skin and mucous
membranes (the mouth or genitals) that are caused by over 100 types of the human
papillomavirus (HPV). Common warts are usually found on areas of the body prone
to trauma, such as the elbows, knees, and hands. The virus causes thickening of
the top skin layer. They are usually painless and go away on their own,
sometimes taking a few months to resolve, but can take up to two years.


Condyloma Acuminatum (Genital
Wart)
Genital warts (condyloma acuminata) are caused
by more than 30 types (strains) of human papillomavirus (HPV). The infection
involves the genital area of men or women and is spread by skin-to-skin contact
during sexual activity.

Conjunctivitis
Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is an inflammation
of the tissue on the surface of the eye and/or the inside lining of the
eyelids.

Contact Lens Solution
Toxicity
Contact lens solution toxicity refers to those
conditions in the eye that are the result of an unwanted reaction to the use of
such solutions.

Corn
Corns are thickenings of the skin composed of
keratin that are typically found on the toes caused by repeated friction or
pressure to the area. The base of the corn is seen on the surface of the skin
while the top points inward, causing discomfort.

Corneal
Abrasion
A corneal abrasion is a scratch or
cut (abrasion) of the clear outer layer (cornea) of the eye. Injury (trauma) is
the most common cause for corneal abrasions.

Corneal
Erosion, Recurrent
A recurrent corneal erosion is the recurrent
breakdown of the outermost layer (epithelium) of the cornea. In recurrent
corneal erosions, the outermost layer of the cornea fails to glue in tightly to
its underlying membrane (basement membrane), making it possible for the
epithelium to break off too easily with little effort.

Corneal
Foreign Body
A corneal foreign body occurs when the cornea
has a piece of foreign matter lodged in it. The most common types of foreign
bodies include particles of dust, debris (eg, metal, wood), paint chips, and
plant materials.

Cutaneous Horn

A cutaneous horn, also known as cornu cutaneum,
refers to a specific appearance of a skin lesion in which a cone-shaped
protuberance arises on the skin caused by overgrowth of the most superficial
layer of skin (epidermis). A cutaneous horn is not a particular lesion but is a
reaction pattern of the skin.

Cutis
Rhomboidalis Nuchae
Cutis rhomboidalis nuchae refers to the
manifestation of long-term, prolonged sun exposure and resultant damage to the
skin occurring on the back of the neck. Long-term, chronic sun exposure causes
thickening of the most superficial layer of the skin (the epidermis) and
abnormalities in the composition of the middle layer of the skin (the dermis).


Cyst, Epidermoid (Sebaceous
Cyst)
Epidermoid cysts, sometimes known as
sebaceous cysts, contain a soft "cheesy" material composed of keratin, a protein
component of skin, hair, and nails. Epidermoid cysts form when the top layer of
skin (epidermis) grows into the middle layer of the skin (dermis).

Cyst, Myxoid

A myxoid cyst (also known as a digital mucous
cyst or pseudocyst) is a growth usually occurring on the finger. The cysts are
believed to form from deteriorated issues.

Dandruff
Dandruff, also known as seborrhea, is a common
non-contagious condition of skin areas rich in oil glands (the face, scalp, and
upper trunk), marked by flaking (overproduction of skin cells) and sometimes
redness and itching (inflammation) of the scalp, varying in severity from
mild flaking of the scalp to scaly, red patches.

Dermatitis, Atopic (Eczema)
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a disorder is
associated with dry skin, which begins with intense itching that is aggravated
by scratching. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, and there is no known cure.


Dermatitis,
Contact
Allergic contact dermatitis is a delayed
hypersensitivity reaction (the reaction to the allergen occurs 48–72 hours after
exposure). The most common allergens causing allergic contact dermatitis appear
to be nickel, chromates, rubber chemicals, and neomycin (an antibacterial).


Dermatitis, Contact
(Pediatric)
Allergic contact dermatitis is an allergy to a
substance (the allergen) touching the skin. The reaction occurs 48–72 hours
after exposure. Common allergens are nickel, chromates, rubber chemicals, and
neomycin (an antibacterial medication).

Dermatitis, Diaper Irritant

Diaper rash (irritant diaper dermatitis) occurs
when an infant's sensitive skin is exposed to urine and stool, coupled with the
diaper rubbing and chafing the skin, a tight-fitting diaper, or possible a
diaper being left on too long. A diarrheal illness can bring on or worsen the
condition.

Dermatitis, Dyshidrotic
Dyshidrotic eczema (dyshidrotic dermatitis) is
generally defined as a rash limited to the hands (usually the palms and sides of
the fingers) and sometimes the feet. Dyshidrotic eczema manifests as small,
itchy, fluid-filled blisters.

Dermatitis, Irritant Contact

Irritant contact dermatitis is an inflammatory
rash caused by direct chemical injury to the skin. Unlike allergic contact
dermatitis, which appears 48–72 hours after exposure to an allergen, the
symptoms of irritant contact dermatitis can result within a few hours if the
exposure is a strong irritant.

Dermatitis,
Nipple
Nipple dermatitis describes either itchiness or
soreness of either one or both nipples. There are several possible causes of
this problem, including eczema (atopic dermatitis), thrush (a yeast
infection), an allergic reaction (contact dermatitis), or a local irritation.


Dermatitis,
Nummular
Nummular dermatitis is a particular form of
eczema (atopic dermatitis) characterized by coin-shaped, raised areas on the
skin that are scaly. The cause of nummular dermatitis is not known, but it is
associated with triggers such as frequent bathing, irritating and drying soaps,
and exposure to irritating fabrics such as wool.

Dermatitis,
Perioral
Perioral dermatitis is an acne-like condition
of unknown cause. Some possible causes are the use of topical corticosteroid
creams, cosmetic products, oral contraceptives, fluoride and anti-tartar
ingredients in dental products, and it tends to occur in those prone to eczema.


Dermatitis, Perioral of
Childhood
Perioral dermatitis is an acne-like problem
commonly seen around the mouth in children. Children are otherwise well, but
they develop small pink bumps around the mouth and sometimes around the nose and
eyes.

Dermatitis, Poison Ivy - Oak -
Sumac
Poison ivy, poison oak, or poison
sumac dermatides are a reaction to the rhus antigen, which is found in poison
ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac plants.

Dermatitis,
Seborrheic
Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as seborrhea,
is a common non-contagious condition of skin areas rich in oil glands (the face,
scalp, and upper trunk). Seborrheic dermatitis is marked by flaking
(overproduction of skin cells) and sometimes redness and itching (inflammation)
of the skin, and it varies in severity from mild dandruff of the scalp to scaly,
red patches on the skin.

Dermatitis, Seborrheic
(Pediatric)
Seborrheic dermatitis in infants is a common
non-contagious condition of skin areas rich in oil glands (eg, the face, scalp,
and upper trunk). Seborrheic dermatitis is marked by overproduction of skin
cells (leading to flaking) and sometimes inflammation (leading to redness and
itching). It varies in severity from mild dandruff of the scalp to scaly, red
patches on the skin.

Dermatitis,
Stasis
Dermatitis is a term used to describe
irritation of the skin with scaling, rough or dry skin, redness, itching, and
sometimes oozing, crusts, and erosions. Stasis is a term used to describe leg
swelling seen in conditions of poor circulation and fluid buildup.

Dermatofibroma
Dermatofibromas, or histiocytomas, are common
non-cancerous (benign) skin growths. They are firm to hard, and they are
skin-colored or slightly pigmented.

Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra
Dermatosis papulosa nigra is a harmless
condition commonly affecting the faces of black and sometimes Asian adults. The
cause of dermatosis papulosa nigra is unknown, although about half of people
affected have a family history of the disease.

Diabetic
Dermopathy
Diabetic dermopathy, also known as shin spots
or pigmented pretibial patches, is a skin condition usually found on the lower
legs of people with diabetes. It is thought to result from changes in the small
blood vessels that supply the skin and from minor leakage of blood products from
these vessels into the skin.

Diaper Dermatitis
(Candidiasis)
Candida albicans is a type of fungus
normally found in the digestive (gastrointestinal) tract. If your baby is
wearing a moist or blocked up (occluded) diaper, particularly one that is dirty
(has fecal contamination), an inflammatory skin rash (dermatitis) may develop on
the baby's skin.

Diaper
Rash (Irritant Diaper Dermatitis)
Diaper rash (irritant diaper dermatitis) occurs
when an infant's sensitive skin is exposed to urine and stool, coupled with the
diaper rubbing and chafing the skin, a tight-fitting diaper, or possible a
diaper being left on too long. A diarrheal illness can bring on or worsen the
condition.

Discoid Lupus Erythematosus

Lupus is a disease in which your body's
self-protection mechanism (immune system) attacks your own body rather than a
foreign invader. The cause of lupus is unknown, and the disease usually takes
one of two forms: systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which can affect any body
organ; and discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), which is milder and usually
affects only the skin.

Drug Eruption,
Unclassified
A drug rash (drug eruption), also known as a
drug reaction, is a skin condition caused by a medication. A drug rash can
appear in many forms, and any medication can cause a drug rash.

Drug
Eruption, Unclassified (Pediatric)
A drug eruption, also known as drug reaction or
drug rash, is a skin condition caused by taking a drug (medication). A drug
eruption can appear in many ways, and any medication can cause a drug eruption.


Dry Skin (Xerosis)

Dry skin (xerosis) is a condition of rough, dry
skin with fine scaling of skin and, occasionally, with small cracks in the
skin. Dry skin is also known as winter itch or asteatosis.

Dyshidrotic Eczema (Dyshidrotic
Dermatitis)
Dyshidrotic eczema (dyshidrotic dermatitis) is
generally defined as a rash limited to the hands (usually the palms and sides of
the fingers) and sometimes the feet. Dyshidrotic eczema manifests as small,
itchy, fluid-filled blisters.

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a disorder is
associated with dry skin, which begins with intense itching that is aggravated
by scratching. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, and there is no known cure.


Epidermoid Cyst
Epidermoid cysts, sometimes known as
sebaceous cysts, contain a soft "cheesy" material composed of keratin, a protein
component of skin, hair, and nails. Epidermoid cysts form when the top layer of
skin (epidermis) grows into the middle layer of the skin (dermis).

Erythema Infectiosum (Fifth
Disease)
Fifth disease (erythema infectiosum), also
called slapped-cheek disease, is a common illness in young children due to
infection with parvovirus B19. Fifth disease is spread by contact with others
who are infected, by exposure to fluid from the nose (respiratory secretions).


Erythema
Nodosum
Erythema nodosum is a skin condition
characterized by the sudden eruption of tender, red bumps, particularly on the
shins. It represents inflammation of the deeper portions of the skin (the
adipose tissue, or fatty layer of skin).

Erythrasma
Erythrasma is a common chronic skin condition
affecting the skin folds. The slowly enlarging patches of pink to brown dry skin
are caused by an infection by the bacterium Corynebacterium minutissimum.


Fifth Disease (Erythema
Infectiosum)
Fifth disease (erythema infectiosum), also
called slapped-cheek disease, is a common illness in young children due to
infection with parvovirus B19. Fifth disease is spread by contact with others
who are infected, by exposure to fluid from the nose (respiratory secretions).


Flashes and
Floaters
Flashes and floaters describes a condition
that comes from changes in the back chamber of the eye (the posterior chamber,
also known as the vitreous cavity).

Flat Wart
Warts are growths of the skin and mucous
membranes (the mouth or genitals) that are caused by over 100 types of the human
papillomavirus (HPV). The virus causes thickening of the top skin layer. Flat
warts tend to stay small in size but can be numerous in quantity. They are
usually painless and go away on their own, sometimes taking a few months to
resolve (but can take up to 2 years).

Folliculitis

Folliculitis is a skin condition caused by an
inflammation of one or more hair follicles in a limited area. It typically
occurs in areas of irritation, such as sites of shaving, skin friction, or
rubbing from clothes. In most cases of folliculitis, the inflamed follicles are
infected with bacteria, especially with Staphylococcus organisms, that
normally live on the skin.

Folliculitis,
Pseudomonas (Hot Tub Folliculitis)
Hot tub rash (Pseudomonas folliculitis)
is an infection of the hair follicle with Pseudomonas bacteria. It is
most commonly seen in people who bathe in a contaminated spa, swimming pool, or
hot tub.

Fordyce Spots

Fordyce spots are normal large, superficial
sebaceous (oil-producing) glands seen on the moist tissue that lines some organs
and body cavities (mucosal surfaces). The "spots" are asymptomatic and can be
found on the head of the penis, the inner foreskin, and, most commonly, at
the border of the lips.

Furunculosis

Boils (furuncles) are painful pus-filled bumps
on the skin resulting from the deep infection of a hair follicle. The infection
is usually caused by a type of bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus
(staph).

Genital Herpes
Genital herpes, the herpes simplex infection of
the genital area, is a common, recurrent skin condition associated with
infection by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV infection usually appears as
small blisters or sores around the mouth, nose, genitals, and buttocks, though
infections can develop almost anywhere on the skin.

Genital Wart (Condyloma
Acuminata)
Genital warts (condyloma acuminata) are caused
by more than 30 types (strains) of human papillomavirus (HPV). The infection
involves the genital area of men or women and is spread by skin-to-skin contact
during sexual activity.

German
Measles (Rubella)
German measles (rubella) is caused by the
rubella virus and spreads among humans through contact with fluids in the
respiratory tract. The development (incubation) period of German measles is
14–21 days before starting to feel ill, and a rash accompanied by fever appears
1–7 days later.

Gonorrhea, Primary Infection

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease
caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhea. It is a contagious sexually
transmitted disease spread by unprotected oral, vaginal, or anal sex with an
infected partner. The bacterium can live in the mouth, semen or vaginal fluids
of infected persons. It is possible to be infected without symptoms and continue
to spread the disease.

Gout
Gout, also called gouty arthritis, is a disease
of how the body processes nutrients (metabolism) in which crystals of uric acid
are deposited in the joints, tendons, and skin. Most commonly affecting men,
gout emerges as the sudden development of swollen, red, hot, tender joints,
especially at the big (great) toe, ankle, wrist, and knee.

Granuloma
Annulare
Granuloma annulare is a common skin condition
characterized by bumps appearing over the joints and the backs of the hands. Its
cause is not known, and most episodes of granuloma annulare clear up after a few
years, with or without treatment.

Granuloma,
Pyogenic
Pyogenic granuloma is a common, benign growth
that often appears as a rapidly growing, bleeding bump on the skin or inside the
mouth. It is composed of blood vessels and may occur at the site of minor
injury.

Hair Loss (Alopecia Areata)
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition
resulting in hair loss. The immune system of the body mistakenly stops hair
growth for unknown reasons.

Hair Loss,
Female Pattern Baldness (Female Pattern Alopecia)
Female pattern baldness (alopecia) is a form of
hair loss affecting women due to an inherited susceptibility. It is most
commonly noticed after menopause, although it may begin earlier.

Hair Loss,
Male Pattern Baldness (Male Pattern Alopecia)
Male pattern baldness (alopecia), or
androgenetic alopecia, is the patterned balding of a man. Although the condition
may affect both the appearance and self-esteem of some men, one should note that
the condition is not a medical disorder.

Hairy Tongue

Hairy tongue, also known as black tongue, is a
benign condition of elongation and staining of the fingerlike projections
(papillae) on the tongue surface. This condition may be caused by overgrowth of
a bacteria or yeast that produces a colored substance (pigment).

Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is a suddenly
appearing (acute), self-limited viral disease caused by viruses of
the enterovirus group, particularly Coxsackievirus A16. The development
(incubation) period from infection to symptoms is short, from 3–6 days.


Head
Lice (Pediculosis Capitis)
Head lice (pediculosis capitis) is a very
common, highly contagious condition that often occurs in nurseries, day care
centers, and schools. It is caused by infestation with the human head louse,
Pediculus humanus capitis, and it can be very itchy.

Herpes
Simplex Virus (HSV)
The first eruption of skin or mouth sores with
the herpes simplex virus is called primary herpes. This may be more severe than
the more commonly recognized secondary, or recurrent, herpes infections, which
are also called cold sores or fever blisters.

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV),
Genital
Genital herpes, the herpes simplex infection of
the genital area, is a common, recurrent skin condition associated with
infection by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV infection usually appears as
small blisters or sores around the mouth, nose, genitals, and buttocks, though
infections can develop almost anywhere on the skin.

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV),
Orofacial
Herpes simplex infection of the mouth and
face, known as orofacial herpes simplex, herpes labialis, cold sores, or fever
blisters, is a common, recurrent skin condition associated with infection by the
herpes simplex virus (HSV).

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV),
Sacral
Herpes simplex infection of the lower back and
buttocks—also called sacral herpes simplex or genital herpes—is a common,
recurrent skin condition associated with infection by the herpes simplex virus
(HSV). HSV infection usually appears as small blisters or sores around the
mouth, nose, genitals, buttocks, and lower back, though infections can develop
almost anywhere on the skin.

Herpetic
Whitlow
Herpetic whitlow—also called digital herpes
simplex, finger herpes, or hand herpes—is a painful viral infection occurring on
the fingers or around the fingernails. Herpetic whitlow is caused by infection
with the herpes simplex virus (HSV).

Hives (Urticaria)

Hives (urticaria), also known as welts, is a
common skin condition with an itchy rash of pink to red bumps that appear and
disappear anywhere on the body. An individual lesion of hives typically lasts a
few hours before fading away, and new hives can appear as older areas disappear.


Hordeolum (Stye) and Chalazion

A stye (hordeolum) is a local, acutely
inflamed growth (swelling, lesion) of the eyelid. They can occur at the lid
margin or farther up the lid on either the inner (tarsal) side or the outer
(skin) side of the lid. A chalazion is the chronic form of a stye, and its
cellular makeup is different than that of a stye.

Hot Tub Rash
(Pseudomonas Folliculitis)
Hot tub rash (Pseudomonas folliculitis)
is an infection of the hair follicle with Pseudomonas bacteria. It is
most commonly seen in people who bathe in a contaminated spa, swimming pool, or
hot tub.

Human
Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Primary Infection
Primary HIV infection (PHI) syndrome is an
acute, flu-like illness that develops anywhere from 1–6 weeks following exposure
to HIV (the human immunodeficiency virus).

Hyperpigmentation,
Post-Inflammatory
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is
darkening of the skin in an area of prior injury or skin disorder from increased
pigment (melanin) left from the healing process. Sometimes the darkening may
also be due to an iron pigment left behind when old red blood cells die.


Hypopigmentation,
Post-Inflammatory
Post-inflammatory hypopigmentation is a loss of
skin color (pigmentation) after your skin heals from an injury. The
pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) are damaged or destroyed in the healing
process.

Ichthyosis Vulgaris
Ichthyosis vulgaris, also known as common
ichthyosis or fish scale disease, is a skin condition resulting in scaly skin,
especially on the arms and legs. Its name is derived from the Greek word meaning
"fish."

Impetigo
Impetigo is a common and contagious bacterial
skin infection that is usually a minor problem, but sometimes complications may
occur that require treatment. Complications related to impetigo can include
deeper skin infection (cellulitis), meningitis, or a kidney inflammation (post
streptococcal glomerulonephritis, which is not prevented by treatment).


Intertrigo
Intertrigo is irritation of touching skin
surfaces in body fold regions (armpits, under the breasts, belly, buttocks,
groin, and sometimes between fingers or toes). Intertrigo can be worsened by any
conditions causing increased heat, wetness, and friction.

Irritant Contact Dermatitis

Irritant contact dermatitis is an inflammatory
rash caused by direct chemical injury to the skin. Unlike allergic contact
dermatitis, which appears 48–72 hours after exposure to an allergen, the
symptoms of irritant contact dermatitis can result within a few hours if the
exposure is a strong irritant.

Jock
Itch (Tinea Cruris)
Jock itch (tinea cruris) is a surface
(superficial) fungal infection of the skin on either side of the body where the
thigh joins the abdomen, known as the groin. It is often spread to the groin
from tinea infection on the feet (tinea pedis or athlete's feet).

Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis

Sweaty sock syndrome (juvenile plantar
dermatosis) is a condition where the skin becomes scaly and red on the soles of
the feet of children and young teenagers. The cause of sweaty sock syndrome is
unknown, though alternating moist and dry conditions may lead to the condition.


Keloid

Keloids are dense, thick nodules, typically
found at areas of previously injured skin (burns, lacerations), or they may
arise spontaneously on normal skin. They may be single or multiple.

Keratoacanthoma
Keratoacanthoma (KA) is a rapidly growing skin
cancer usually appearing as a volcano-like bump on the sun-exposed skin of
middle-aged and elderly individuals. Many scientists consider keratoacanthoma to
be a less serious form of squamous cell carcinoma.

Keratolysis,
Pitted
Pitted keratolysis is a skin condition
affecting the soles of the feet and, less commonly, the palms of the hands. It
is caused by a bacterial infection of the skin and may give off an unpleasant
odor.

Keratosis
Pilaris
Keratosis pilaris is a very common benign skin
condition appearing as small, whitish bumps on the upper arms and thighs,
especially of children and young adults. Individual lesions of keratosis pilaris
arise when a hair follicle becomes plugged with keratin, a protein found in
skin, hair, and nails.

Keratosis,
Seborrheic
Seborrheic keratoses are common benign growths
of unknown cause seen in adults due to a thickening of an area of the top skin
layer.

Kerion
A kerion is a scalp condition that occurs in
severe cases of tinea capitis, or scalp ringworm. A kerion appears as an
inflamed, thickened, pus-filled area, and it is sometimes accompanied by a
fever.

Lentigo Simplex
Lentigo simplex is a type of color-containing
(pigmented) lesion not caused by sun exposure, which looks like the freckle-like
condition (lentigo) caused by sun exposure (solar lentigo). In both conditions,
an increased number of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) are present.


Lentigo, Solar

A solar lentigo (plural, solar lentigines),
also known as a sun-induced freckle or senile lentigo, is a dark
(hyperpigmented) lesion caused by natural or artificial ultraviolet (UV)
light. Solar lentigines may be single or multiple. This type of lentigo is
different from a simple lentigo (lentigo simplex) because it is caused by
exposure to UV light.

Lichen Planus

Lichen planus (LP) is a disease of the skin
and, less often, the scalp, fingernails, toenails, and/or inside the mouth or
genitalia (mucous membranes). Lichen planus can resolve on its own without
treatment or be chronic, even with aggressive treatment. The cause of the
inflammation that leads to lichen planus is unknown.

Lichen
Simplex Chronicus
Lichen simplex chronicus (LSC), also known as
neurodermatitis circumscripta, is an itchy skin condition causing thickened skin
at the areas of skin injured by repeated scratching and rubbing. Lichen simplex
chronicus is not a primary disease but rather the skin's response to chronic
physical injury (trauma).

Lupus
Erythematosus, Discoid
Lupus is a disease in which your body's
self-protection mechanism (immune system) attacks your own body rather than a
foreign invader. The cause of lupus is unknown, and the disease usually takes
one of two forms: systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which can affect any body
organ; and discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), which is milder and usually
affects only the skin.

Lupus
Erythematosus, Systemic
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), also called
lupus, is a chronic inflammatory disease that can affect almost any part of the
body, especially the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, bones, blood, or
brain. Systemic lupus erythematosus is considered an autoimmune disorder,
meaning that a person's own immune system attacks his or her own healthy cells
and tissues, causing inflammation and damage.

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is the result of infection with
the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi. The disease is transmitted by infected
ticks that also feed on mice and deer. The tick can be found attached to the
skin in many cases. Most cases of Lyme disease occur in the spring and summer
months.

Lymphogranuloma Venereum (LGV)

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is an uncommon
sexually transmitted disease caused by certain types of the bacteria called
Chlamydia trachomatis. It is spread through having unprotected vaginal,
oral, or anal sex.

Measles (Rubeola)
Measles (rubeola) is a highly contagious
infection of the respiratory system, which is caused by a virus. It does not
occur often in the United States, since immunizations have been required since
the 1960s.

Melanoma
Melanoma is a life-threatening form of skin
cancer. This cancer starts in the color-producing (pigment-producing) cells of
the skin. Melanoma may develop from a previously existing mole (nevus) or may
occur as a new lesion.

Melanotic
Macule, Oral
Oral melanotic macule is a non-cancerous
(benign), dark spot found on the lips or inside the mouth. An oral melanotic
macule found on the lip is sometimes called a labial melanotic macule.


Melasma
Melasma is a non-cancerous (benign) disorder of
unknown cause that causes dark (hyperpigmented) patches, primarily on
the face. The condition is marked by brown patches that worsen in response to
increases of the hormone estrogen, such as during pregnancy or with the use of
birth control pills.

Milia
Milia are common non-cancerous (benign) skin
findings in people of all ages. Milia formed directly from sloughed-off skin
(primary milia) are small, fluid-filled lesions (cysts) usually found on the
faces of infants and adults, while lesions formed indirectly (secondary milia)
are small cysts found within areas of skin affected by another skin condition.


Miliaria Rubra

Prickly heat (miliaria rubra), also known
as heat rash, is a rash of small red bumps caused by blockage of the sweat
glands. It can be due to high fever, excessive sweating, or being over-bundled.
It is seen commonly in hot, humid tropical climates. It can cause
discomfort, itching, and, sometimes, stinging or "prickly"-type pain.


Mole (Nevus)
A mole (nevus) is a non-cancerous (benign) skin
lesion that is made up of the color-producing (pigment-producing) cells of the
skin (melanocytes). A mole that is present at birth is referred to as a
congenital nevus.

Mole, Atypical
(Atypical Nevus)
Atypical moles (atypical nevi) or dysplastic
moles (dysplastic nevi), are caused by collections of the color-producing
(pigment-producing) cells of the skin (melanocytes) in which the cells grow in
an abnormal way. Atypical moles may occur as new lesions or as a change in an
existing mole.

Molluscum
Contagiosum
Molluscum is a common painless and usually
harmless viral infection of the skin. Although it is painless and usually goes
away after several months, some cases can last a few years.

Molluscum Contagiosum
(Pediatric)
Molluscum contagiosum is a common painless and
usually harmless viral infection of the skin. Although molluscum contagiosum is
painless and usually goes away after several months, some infections can last a
few years. Molluscum contagiosum is a common painless and usually harmless
viral infection of the skin. Although molluscum contagiosum is painless and
usually goes away after several months, some infections can last a few years.


Mucocele, Oral

An oral mucocele is a harmless,
fluid-containing (cyst-like) swelling of the lip or mouth lining (mucosa) due to
mucus from the small salivary glands of the mouth leaking into the soft tissue,
usually from injury (trauma) or blockage of the gland.

Myxoid Cyst
A myxoid cyst (also known as a digital mucous
cyst or pseudocyst) is a growth usually occurring on the finger. The cysts are
believed to form from deteriorated issues.

Nail
Infection, Bacterial (Paronychia)
Paronychia, commonly known as bacterial nail
infection, is inflammation of the region of the finger or toe from which the
nail plate originates, which is called the proximal nail fold (PNF). This
inflammation may occur in the short term (acute) or may be a long-term problem
or one that keeps coming back (chronic).

Nail Infection,
Fungal (Onychomycosis)
Onychomycosis, commonly known as a fungal nail
infection, is infection of the fingernails or toenails by forms of fungi and
yeast. Fungal nail infections account for nearly half of all nail disorders.


Nail Lifting
(Onycholysis)
Nail lifting (onycholysis) is the spontaneous
separation (detachment) of the fingernail or toenail from the nail bed at the
end of the nail (distal) and/or on the sides of the nail (lateral). The
appearance of nail lifting may resemble a half-moon, or the free edge of the
nail may rise up like a hood.

Nail Splitting
(Onychoschizia)
Onychoschizia, commonly known as nail splitting
but also known as onychoschisis or lamellar dystrophy, is a condition that
causes horizontal splits within the nail plate. Nail splitting is often seen
together with onychorrhexis – long-wise (longitudinal) splitting or ridging of
the nail plate – and these 2 diseases together are called "brittle nail
syndrome."

Nevus
A mole (nevus) is a non-cancerous (benign) skin
lesion that is made up of the color-producing (pigment-producing) cells of the
skin (melanocytes). A mole that is present at birth is referred to as a
congenital nevus.

Nevus,
Atypical
Atypical moles (atypical nevi) or dysplastic
moles (dysplastic nevi), are caused by collections of the color-producing
(pigment-producing) cells of the skin (melanocytes) in which the cells grow in
an abnormal way. Atypical moles may occur as new lesions or as a change in an
existing mole.

Nevus, Congenital Melanocytic

Congenital melanocytic nevus (CMN) is a mole
that is present at birth or shortly thereafter. It is one common type of
birthmark, caused by a cluster of color (pigment) cells in the skin and
sometimes in deeper tissues.

Nipple
Dermatitis
Nipple dermatitis describes either itchiness or
soreness of either one or both nipples. There are several possible causes of
this problem, including eczema (atopic dermatitis), thrush (a yeast
infection), an allergic reaction (contact dermatitis), or a local irritation.


Notalgia
Paraesthetica
Notalgia paresthetica is a condition where the
skin of the upper back becomes itchy, and there is often a darker patch of skin
on the itchy area. Notalgia paresthetica may be caused by a problem with the
nerve cells that provide feeling to the skin of the upper back (sensory
neuropathy).

Nummular
Dermatitis
Nummular dermatitis is a particular form of
eczema (atopic dermatitis) characterized by coin-shaped, raised areas on the
skin that are scaly. The cause of nummular dermatitis is not known, but it is
associated with triggers such as frequent bathing, irritating and drying soaps,
and exposure to irritating fabrics such as wool.

Onycholysis
Nail lifting (onycholysis) is the spontaneous
separation (detachment) of the fingernail or toenail from the nail bed at the
end of the nail (distal) and/or on the sides of the nail (lateral). The
appearance of nail lifting may resemble a half-moon, or the free edge of the
nail may rise up like a hood.

Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis, commonly known as a fungal nail
infection, is infection of the fingernails or toenails by forms of fungi and
yeast. Fungal nail infections account for nearly half of all nail disorders.


Onychoschizia

Onychoschizia, commonly known as nail splitting
but also known as onychoschisis or lamellar dystrophy, is a condition that
causes horizontal splits within the nail plate. Nail splitting is often seen
together with onychorrhexis – long-wise (longitudinal) splitting or ridging of
the nail plate – and these 2 diseases together are called "brittle nail
syndrome."

Oral
Melanotic Macule
Oral melanotic macule is a non-cancerous
(benign), dark spot found on the lips or inside the mouth. An oral melanotic
macule found on the lip is sometimes called a labial melanotic macule.


Oral Mucocele

An oral mucocele is a harmless,
fluid-containing (cyst-like) swelling of the lip or mouth lining (mucosa) due to
mucus from the small salivary glands of the mouth leaking into the soft tissue,
usually from injury (trauma) or blockage of the gland.

Paronychia
Paronychia, commonly known as bacterial nail
infection, is inflammation of the region of the finger or toe from which the
nail plate originates, which is called the proximal nail fold (PNF). This
inflammation may occur in the short term (acute) or may be a long-term problem
or one that keeps coming back (chronic).

Pediculosis Capitis (Head
Lice)
Head lice (pediculosis capitis) is a very
common, highly contagious condition that often occurs in nurseries, day care
centers, and schools. It is caused by infestation with the human head louse,
Pediculus humanus capitis, and it can be very itchy.

Pediculosis Pubis (Pubic Lice)

Pubic lice (pediculosis pubis), also known as
crab lice or crabs, is a louse (a type of wingless, bloodsucking insect) that
can live and multiply (infest) on skin that grows pubic hair. Pubic lice most
commonly affect the pubic hair, but other hair-bearing areas, such as
the armpits and eyelashes, eyebrows, or scalp, may also be affected.

Perioral
Dermatitis
Perioral dermatitis is an acne-like condition
of unknown cause. Some possible causes are the use of topical corticosteroid
creams, cosmetic products, oral contraceptives, fluoride and anti-tartar
ingredients in dental products, and it tends to occur in those prone to eczema.


Perioral Dermatitis
(Pediatric)
Perioral dermatitis is an acne-like problem
commonly seen around the mouth in children. Children are otherwise well, but
they develop small pink bumps around the mouth and sometimes around the nose and
eyes.

Pilar Cyst
Pilar (trichilemmal) cysts, sometimes referred
to as wens, are common fluid-filled growths (cysts) that form from hair
follicles that are most often found on the scalp. The cysts are smooth and
mobile, filled with keratin (a protein component found in hair, nails, and
skin), and they may or may not be tender.

Pink Eye
(Conjunctivitis)
Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is an inflammation
of the tissue on the surface of the eye and/or the inside lining of the
eyelids.

Pitted
Keratolysis
Pitted keratolysis is a skin condition
affecting the soles of the feet and, less commonly, the palms of the hands. It
is caused by a bacterial infection of the skin and may give off an unpleasant
odor.

Pityriasis
Alba
Pityriasis alba is a common noncancerous
(benign) skin condition affecting children. It appears as light-colored patches,
especially on the cheeks.

Pityriasis
Rosea
Pityriasis rosea (PR) is a common non-cancerous
(benign) rash that mostly affects the back, chest, and abdomen. It starts fairly
quickly, lasts about 6–8 weeks, and is usually not itchy.

Plantar Wart

Warts are growths of the skin and mucous
membranes (the mouth or genitals) that are caused by over 100 types of the human
papillomavirus (HPV). The virus causes thickening of the top skin layer. A
plantar wart occurs on the sole of the foot. It can look and feel like a
callus. Plantar warts can be small, or they can grow to cover most of the sole
of the foot. They are usually painless and go away on their own, sometimes
taking a few months to resolve (but can take up to 2 years).

Poikiloderma of Civatte
Poikiloderma of Civatte is a chronic,
non-cancerous (benign) skin condition in fair-skinned adults, which is probably
caused by long-term sun exposure. Poikiloderma of Civatte shows a specific
pattern of color change in the skin due to sun damage to the neck and sometimes
the center of the chest.

Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac

Poison ivy, poison oak, or poison
sumac dermatides are a reaction to the rhus antigen, which is found in poison
ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac plants.

Post-Inflammatory
Hyperpigmentation
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is
darkening of the skin in an area of prior injury or skin disorder from increased
pigment (melanin) left from the healing process. Sometimes the darkening may
also be due to an iron pigment left behind when old red blood cells die.


Post-Inflammatory
Hypopigmentation
Post-inflammatory hypopigmentation is a loss of
skin color (pigmentation) after your skin heals from an injury. The
pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) are damaged or destroyed in the healing
process.

Presbyopia
Presbyopia is an age-related change in vision
whereby one loses the ability to see near without corrective lenses or
corrective surgery. The cause of presbyopia is a change in the ability of the
human lens to change its shape (a process called accommodation) to allow one to
focus on objects that are at close range.

Prickly Heat
(Miliaria Rubra)
Prickly heat (miliaria rubra), also known
as heat rash, is a rash of small red bumps caused by blockage of the sweat
glands. It can be due to high fever, excessive sweating, or being over-bundled.
It is seen commonly in hot, humid tropical climates. It can cause
discomfort, itching, and, sometimes, stinging or "prickly"-type pain.


Primary
Syphilis
Primary syphilis is a disease caused by a
corkscrew-shaped bacterium (a spirochete) called Treponema pallidum. It
causes disease when it penetrates broken skin of the genitals or the mucous
membranes of the mouth or anus.

Pseudofolliculitis Barbae
Razor bumps (pseudofolliculitis barbae), also
known as shaving bumps, affects men with tightly curved (or curly) hairs; the
problem is a reaction to the tip of the hair growing back under the skin or into
the hair follicle after a close shave. Razor bumps is not an infection but
rather a "foreign body" reaction, much like the body would react to a splinter
of wood in the skin.

Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a non-contagious, lifelong skin
problem with thickened red, and often scaly, skin. It is very likely to run in
families (hereditary) and seems to be caused by errors in how the immune system
works.

Pubic
Lice (Pediculosis Pubis)
Pubic lice (pediculosis pubis), also known as
crab lice or crabs, is a louse (a type of wingless, bloodsucking insect) that
can live and multiply (infest) on skin that grows pubic hair. Pubic lice most
commonly affect the pubic hair, but other hair-bearing areas, such as
the armpits and eyelashes, eyebrows, or scalp, may also be affected.

Pyogenic
Granuloma
Pyogenic granuloma is a common, benign growth
that often appears as a rapidly growing, bleeding bump on the skin or inside the
mouth. It is composed of blood vessels and may occur at the site of minor
injury.

Raynaud's Disease
Raynaud's disease is a disorder in which the
blood vessels to the fingers and toes (digits) become abnormally closed off
(constricted). The fingers and toes of individuals with Raynaud's disease change
color from white to blue to red, often causing them to feel numb.

Razor
Bumps (Pseudofolliculitis Barbae)
Razor bumps (pseudofolliculitis barbae), also
known as shaving bumps, affects men with tightly curved (or curly) hairs; the
problem is a reaction to the tip of the hair growing back under the skin or into
the hair follicle after a close shave. Razor bumps is not an infection but
rather a "foreign body" reaction, much like the body would react to a splinter
of wood in the skin.

Recurrent Corneal Erosion
A recurrent corneal erosion is the recurrent
breakdown of the outermost layer (epithelium) of the cornea. In recurrent
corneal erosions, the outermost layer of the cornea fails to glue in tightly to
its underlying membrane (basement membrane), making it possible for the
epithelium to break off too easily with little effort.

Ringworm (Tinea
Corporis)
Tinea infections are commonly called ringworm
because some may form a ring-like pattern on affected areas of the body. Tinea
corporis, also known as ringworm of the body, tinea circinata, or simply
ringworm, is a surface (superficial) fungal infection of the skin.

Ringworm,
Beard (Tinea Barbae)
Tinea infections are commonly called ringworm
because some may form a ring-like pattern on affected areas of the body. Beard
ringworm (tinea barbae), also known as tinea sycosis or barber's itch, is a
fungal infection of the skin, hair, and hair follicles of the beard and mustache
area.

Ringworm,
Facial (Tinea Faciale)
Tinea infections are commonly called ringworm
because some infections form a ring-like pattern on affected areas of the
body. Facial ringworm (tinea faciale), also known as tinea faciei or ringworm of
the face, is a common, non-cancerous (benign) fungal infection of the surface
(superficial) skin of the face.

Ringworm, Scalp
(Tinea Capitis)
Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis) is a common
mild infection of the scalp and hair that appears as scaly spots and patches of
broken hair on the head. Caused by a fungus, it is most commonly seen in
children.

Rosacea
Rosacea, sometimes called adult acne, is a
chronic inflammation of the face of unknown cause and without a permanent cure.


Roseola
(Sixth Disease)
Roseola, also known as sixth disease, exanthem
subitum, and roseola infantum, is a mild illness that mainly affects children
that will go away on its own. Roseola is caused by viruses of the herpes
type. Infected children have a few days of high fever followed by a rash as the
fever goes down.

Rubella
(German Measles)
German measles (rubella) is caused by the
rubella virus and spreads among humans through contact with fluids in the
respiratory tract. The development (incubation) period of German measles is
14–21 days before starting to feel ill, and a rash accompanied by fever appears
1–7 days later.

Rubeola
(Measles)
Measles (rubeola) is a highly contagious
infection of the respiratory system, which is caused by a virus. It does not
occur often in the United States, since immunizations have been required since
the 1960s.

Sacral Herpes
Herpes simplex infection of the lower back and
buttocks—also called sacral herpes simplex or genital herpes—is a common,
recurrent skin condition associated with infection by the herpes simplex virus
(HSV). HSV infection usually appears as small blisters or sores around the
mouth, nose, genitals, buttocks, and lower back, though infections can develop
almost anywhere on the skin.

Scabies
Scabies is an itchy skin condition caused by a
tiny parasite (mite) called Sarcoptes scabiei that can live and multiply
(infest) on skin. They are passed between people by prolonged skin-to-skin
contact.

Scabies
(Pediatric)
Scabies is an itchy skin condition caused by a
tiny parasite (mite) called Sarcoptes scabiei that can live and multiply
(infest) on skin. They are passed between people by prolonged skin-to-skin
contact.

Scaly Skin
(Ichthyosis Vulgaris)
Ichthyosis vulgaris, also known as common
ichthyosis or fish scale disease, is a skin condition resulting in scaly skin,
especially on the arms and legs. Its name is derived from the Greek word meaning
"fish."

Scarlet Fever

Scarlet fever is an infection with a type of
bacteria called Streptococcus, which not only causes a throat infection
("strep throat"), but also produces a poison (toxin) causing the distinctive
rash of scarlet fever. Some people are more sensitive to the toxin than others,
so not everyone in a family who is infected will have the rash, even if they
have the throat infection.

Sebaceous
Hyperplasia
Sebaceous hyperplasia is a common harmless
enlargement of the skin oil glands.

Seborrheic
Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as seborrhea,
is a common non-contagious condition of skin areas rich in oil glands (the face,
scalp, and upper trunk). Seborrheic dermatitis is marked by flaking
(overproduction of skin cells) and sometimes redness and itching (inflammation)
of the skin, and it varies in severity from mild dandruff of the scalp to scaly,
red patches on the skin.

Seborrheic Dermatitis
(Pediatric)
Seborrheic dermatitis in infants is a common
non-contagious condition of skin areas rich in oil glands (eg, the face, scalp,
and upper trunk). Seborrheic dermatitis is marked by overproduction of skin
cells (leading to flaking) and sometimes inflammation (leading to redness and
itching). It varies in severity from mild dandruff of the scalp to scaly, red
patches on the skin.

Seborrheic
Keratosis
Seborrheic keratoses are common benign growths
of unknown cause seen in adults due to a thickening of an area of the top skin
layer.

Shingles
(Zoster)
Shingles (zoster), also known as herpes
zoster, is a painful rash caused by the varicella zoster virus, the virus that
causes chickenpox. When a person gets chickenpox, the virus remains sleeping
(dormant) in one or more bundles of nerves near the spinal cord (nerve roots) in
the body.

Skin Tag
(Acrochordon)
A skin tag (acrochordon) is a common, possibly
inherited condition that manifests as small, flesh-colored growths on a thin
stalk. Skin tags are benign lesions that can sometimes become irritated or
traumatized.

Solar Lentigo

A solar lentigo (plural, solar lentigines),
also known as a sun-induced freckle or senile lentigo, is a dark
(hyperpigmented) lesion caused by natural or artificial ultraviolet (UV)
light. Solar lentigines may be single or multiple. This type of lentigo is
different from a simple lentigo (lentigo simplex) because it is caused by
exposure to UV light.

Spider Angioma

A spider angioma is a grouping of small blood
vessels at the skin surface. The pattern sometimes resembles the threads of a
spider's web.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second
most common form of skin cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma usually occurs on
sun-damaged skin, especially in light-skinned individuals with a long history of
chronic sun exposure.

Stasis
Dermatitis
Dermatitis is a term used to describe
irritation of the skin with scaling, rough or dry skin, redness, itching, and
sometimes oozing, crusts, and erosions. Stasis is a term used to describe leg
swelling seen in conditions of poor circulation and fluid buildup.

Stasis
Ulcer
A stasis ulcer is a breakdown of the skin
(ulcer) caused by fluid build-up in the skin from poor vein function (venous
insufficiency). Fluid leaks from the veins into skin tissue when the blood backs
up rather than returning to the heart through the veins.

Stretch Marks
(Striae)
Stretch marks (striae) are stripe-like skin
marks that develop as a result of rapid weight gain or loss, when the skin is
stretched, and as a result of some diseases.

Striae
Stretch marks (striae) are stripe-like skin
marks that develop as a result of rapid weight gain or loss, when the skin is
stretched, and as a result of some diseases.

Stye
(Hordeolum and Chalazion)
A stye (hordeolum) is a local, acutely
inflamed growth (swelling, lesion) of the eyelid. They can occur at the lid
margin or farther up the lid on either the inner (tarsal) side or the outer
(skin) side of the lid. A chalazion is the chronic form of a stye, and its
cellular makeup is different than that of a stye.

Sunburn
Sunburn is caused by the skin's reaction to
ultraviolet light exposure. It appears as reddening and tenderness of the skin
and usually occurs between 12 and 24 hours after the exposure.

Sweaty
Sock Syndrome (Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis)
Sweaty sock syndrome (juvenile plantar
dermatosis) is a condition where the skin becomes scaly and red on the soles of
the feet of children and young teenagers. The cause of sweaty sock syndrome is
unknown, though alternating moist and dry conditions may lead to the condition.


Syphilis,
Primary
Primary syphilis is a disease caused by a
corkscrew-shaped bacterium (a spirochete) called Treponema pallidum. It
causes disease when it penetrates broken skin of the genitals or the mucous
membranes of the mouth or anus.

Syringoma
Syringoma is a non-cancerous (benign) bump
usually found on the upper cheeks and lower eyelids of young
adults. Syringomas are completely harmless and are caused by the overgrowth of
cells from sweat glands (eccrine glands).

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), also called
lupus, is a chronic inflammatory disease that can affect almost any part of the
body, especially the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, bones, blood, or
brain. Systemic lupus erythematosus is considered an autoimmune disorder,
meaning that a person's own immune system attacks his or her own healthy cells
and tissues, causing inflammation and damage.

Telangiectasia
Telangiectasias are widely open (dilated) blood
vessels in the outer layer of the skin. When seen on the legs, they are often
called spider veins.

Thrush
(Oral Candidiasis)
Thrush (oral candidiasis), also known as oral
moniliasis, is a yeast infection of the mouth or throat (the oral cavity). The
yeast that most commonly causes oral candidiasis is Candida albicans.


Tinea Barbae

Tinea infections are commonly called ringworm
because some may form a ring-like pattern on affected areas of the body. Beard
ringworm (tinea barbae), also known as tinea sycosis or barber's itch, is a
fungal infection of the skin, hair, and hair follicles of the beard and mustache
area.

Tinea Capitis

Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis) is a common
mild infection of the scalp and hair that appears as scaly spots and patches of
broken hair on the head. Caused by a fungus, it is most commonly seen in
children.

Tinea Corporis

Tinea infections are commonly called ringworm
because some may form a ring-like pattern on affected areas of the body. Tinea
corporis, also known as ringworm of the body, tinea circinata, or simply
ringworm, is a surface (superficial) fungal infection of the skin.

Tinea Cruris

Jock itch (tinea cruris) is a surface
(superficial) fungal infection of the skin on either side of the body where the
thigh joins the abdomen, known as the groin. It is often spread to the groin
from tinea infection on the feet (tinea pedis or athlete's feet).

Tinea Faciale

Tinea infections are commonly called ringworm
because some infections form a ring-like pattern on affected areas of the
body. Facial ringworm (tinea faciale), also known as tinea faciei or ringworm of
the face, is a common, non-cancerous (benign) fungal infection of the surface
(superficial) skin of the face.

Tinea
Pedis (Athlete's Foot)
Tinea pedis, also known as ringworm of the foot
or athlete's foot, is a surface (superficial) fungal infection of the skin of
the foot. The most common fungal disease in humans, athlete's foot, may be
passed to humans by direct contact with infected people, infected animals,
contaminated objects (such as towels or locker room floors), or the soil.


Tinea
Versicolor
Tinea versicolor, also known as pityriasis
versicolor, is a common, non-cancerous (benign) skin condition caused by surface
(superficial) infection with a type of yeast that normally lives on the skin. In
the right conditions, such as warm, oily, and moist skin, the yeast
(Malassezia) can overgrow and cause a rash, consisting of tan, pink,
brown, or white patches.

Ulcer, Aphthous
Canker sores (aphthous ulcers), or aphthae, are
the most common cause of periodic (recurring) ulcers inside the mouth and
genital linings (mucous membrane surfaces). Their cause is unknown, but stress,
lack of sleep, trauma, and perhaps some vitamin deficiencies, toothpastes, and
foods can make the condition worse.

Ulcer,
Decubitus
Bedsores (decubitus ulcers), also known as
pressure sores or ulcers, result from prolonged pressure that cuts off the blood
supply to the skin, causing the skin and other tissue to die.

Ulcer,
Stasis (Venous Ulcer)
A stasis ulcer is a breakdown of the skin
(ulcer) caused by fluid build-up in the skin from poor vein function (venous
insufficiency). Fluid leaks from the veins into skin tissue when the blood backs
up rather than returning to the heart through the veins.

Urticaria
Hives (urticaria), also known as welts, is a
common skin condition with an itchy rash of pink to red bumps that appear and
disappear anywhere on the body. An individual lesion of hives typically lasts a
few hours before fading away, and new hives can appear as older areas disappear.


Varicella (Chickenpox)
Chickenpox (varicella) is an infectious disease
caused by the varicella zoster virus that goes away on its own. Infection
spreads among humans through fluids from the airways, such as from coughing and
sneezing, with non-infected household members at high risk of becoming infected
as well.

Varicose Veins
(Varicosities)
Varicose veins (varicosities) are
twisted, enlarged veins at the skin surface. The word comes from the Latin word
varix, which means "twisted."

Varicosities

Varicose veins (varicosities) are
twisted, enlarged veins at the skin surface. The word comes from the Latin word
varix, which means "twisted."

Viral Exanthem

Viral exanthem, also known as non-specific
viral rash, is a rash caused by a viral infection. Many viruses can cause a
similar-appearing rash, so it is difficult to tell which one is the
culprit. Your age, duration of illness, and other symptoms may suggest which
virus is the cause. Respiratory and stomach (gastrointestinal) viruses are
common causes of such a rash.

Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a disease where the immune system
turns against itself (autoimmune disease) where immune cells of the body attack
the color-producing (pigment-producing) cells to cause white patches on the
skin, which may contain hairs that are white in color.

Wart,
Common
Warts are growths of the skin and mucous
membranes (the mouth or genitals) that are caused by over 100 types of the human
papillomavirus (HPV). Common warts are usually found on areas of the body prone
to trauma, such as the elbows, knees, and hands. The virus causes thickening of
the top skin layer. They are usually painless and go away on their own,
sometimes taking a few months to resolve, but can take up to two years.


Wart, Flat
Warts are growths of the skin and mucous
membranes (the mouth or genitals) that are caused by over 100 types of the human
papillomavirus (HPV). The virus causes thickening of the top skin layer. Flat
warts tend to stay small in size but can be numerous in quantity. They are
usually painless and go away on their own, sometimes taking a few months to
resolve (but can take up to 2 years).

Wart, Plantar

Warts are growths of the skin and mucous
membranes (the mouth or genitals) that are caused by over 100 types of the human
papillomavirus (HPV). The virus causes thickening of the top skin layer. A
plantar wart occurs on the sole of the foot. It can look and feel like a
callus. Plantar warts can be small, or they can grow to cover most of the sole
of the foot. They are usually painless and go away on their own, sometimes
taking a few months to resolve (but can take up to 2 years).

Xanthelasma Palpebrarum
Xanthelasma (xanthelasma palpebrarum) is a
skin condition that develops flat yellow growths on the eyelids. Xanthelasma is
often seen in people with high cholesterol or other fat (lipid) levels in the
blood, and the lesions contain deposits that are high in fat (lipid-rich).


Xerosis
Dry skin (xerosis) is a condition of rough, dry
skin with fine scaling of skin and, occasionally, with small cracks in the
skin. Dry skin is also known as winter itch or asteatosis.

Yeast
Infection (Candidiasis)
Candidiasis, commonly known as a
yeast infection, is an infection with the common yeast (or fungus) organism,
Candida albicans, which is commonly found in the
environment. Sometimes this yeast lives in the mouth, digestive
(gastrointestinal) tract, and the vagina, along with many kinds of harmless
bacteria, without causing any issues.

Zoster (Shingles)
Shingles (zoster), also known as herpes
zoster, is a painful rash caused by the varicella zoster virus, the virus that
causes chickenpox. When a person gets chickenpox, the virus remains sleeping
(dormant) in one or more bundles of nerves near the spinal cord (nerve roots) in
the body.