Acanthosis nigricans presents as a darkening and velvety thickening of the skin, most commonly affecting the neck, armpits, and groin region. It is most commonly associated with obesity and insulin resistance; people who have acanthosis nigricans are more likely to develop diabetes. In very rare instances, it can be associated with an internal cancer such as stomach cancer. Blacks, Latinos, and Native Americans are more likely to develop acanthosis nigricans. Management typically involves treating the underlying condition. Topical medications and laser therapy have also been used to treat acanthosis nigricans.

Acne is a common skin condition caused by the blockage of hair follicles by sebum (oil), dead skin cells, and bacteria. The blocked pores lead to whiteheads, blackheads, inflammatory papules or nodules (red, tender bumps), pustules (pus-filled bumps), and even cysts. Acne breakouts can occur at any age but are most common during the teenage years. Hormonal changes, certain medications, and the use of oily or greasy products are some factors that can contribute to breakouts. Acne breakouts most typically occur on the face, chest, back, and shoulders. Numerous treatment options are available, including but not limited to: over-the-counter products, prescription topical medications, oral prescription medications, photodynamic therapy, chemical peels, and laser therapy.

Acne keloidalis nuchae is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects mainly Black men. Affected individuals develop pink to flesh colored, dome shaped papules and pustules around the hair follicles on the posterior scalp and neck. These firm, scar-like bumps can gradually enlarge and coalesce to form larger lesions. The condition leads to scarring and hair loss in the affected areas. The cause of the condition is unknown. Management of the condition focuses on avoiding irritation and friction to the affected areas and adjusting shaving techniques to prevent the formation of new lesions. Treatment options include prescription medications, corticosteroid injections, laser therapy, and surgery.

Have you recently experienced dry patches of skin that are red, inflamed, and extremely itchy? You may have atopic dermatitis or eczema and require a consultation from a licensed medical professional or dermatologist. Here's everything you need to know about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for atopic dermatitis.

What is Atopic Dermatitis?

A chronic skin condition, atopic dermatitis results in irritation and inflammation of your skin. It is the most commonly occurring form of eczema. Atopic dermatitis causes redness and itchiness to the affected area of the skin.

Lack of moisture in the top layer of the skin can lead it to dry out and inflammation. As a result of this inflammation, the person is more likely to scratch themselves to satisfy the itch, leading to more damage, redness, swelling, and oozing as the skin gets damaged.

According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, there is no singular cause for atopic dermatitis. Instead, it can occur as a result of:

• genetics—people with a family history of eczema may be more likely to develop atopic dermatitis themselves
• immune-mediated abnormalities in the skin barrier
• environmental stressors, such as dry weather, hot water, harsh soaps, and fragrances

What Are the Symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis?

A chronic inflammatory skin condition, atopic dermatitis first occurs in early childhood and typically resolves by adolescence. However, it is not uncommon for adults to experience atopic dermatitis. In fact, the worldwide prevalence of atopic dermatitis ranges from 2% to 10% in adults in developed countries.

Common symptoms of atopic dermatitis include:

• dry, itchy skin
• rashes on the face, backs of elbows and knees, as well as the hands and feet
• redness
• flaky and/or scaly skin that thickens over time

How is Atopic Dermatitis Treated?

Treatment of atopic dermatitis depends on the symptoms and severity of the disorder. A dermatologist or licensed medical professional can help diagnose your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Prevention of flare-ups and increased healing of the skin barrier are two important and necessary ways to keep atopic dermatitis at bay. It's not uncommon for your dermatologist to prescribe several therapies to help tackle and manage the symptoms of atopic dermatitis.

Some common forms of treatment for atopic dermatitis include:

• Routine skincare that includes emollients to prevent dry skin
• Avoiding the use of perfumed products on your skin (creams, perfumes, soaps) and clothing
• Topical steroids and non-steroidal agents
• Topical or oral antibiotics, if a skin infection is present
• Medications, including injectables such as biologics that reduce the incidence of inflammation
• Phototherapy, makes use of ultraviolet A or ultraviolet B light waves to treat the condition

What to Expect During a Diagnosis for Atopic Dermatitis

If you've never been diagnosed with atopic dermatitis before, you may be wondering what to expect during your appointment with the dermatologist.

A licensed dermatologist will ask you a series of questions regarding your current condition to determine if you’re experiencing any symptoms of eczema. In addition, your provider may ask you questions about your past medical history as well as your family history. Your provider will also perform an exam to evaluate the affected areas of your skin.

Your doctor may suggest tests such as allergy tests before making a diagnosis. Treatment for atopic dermatitis varies from patient to patient and can include the prescription of medications and a new skin care routine.

While there is currently no cure for atopic dermatitis, learning to manage the symptoms can help you live with this chronic skin disorder. Effective atopic dermatitis treatments require an accurate evaluation and prompt care using safe, effective therapies.

Bullous pemphigoid is an autoimmune skin condition. Affected individuals complain of significant itching and can develop an eczema-like rash, a hive-like rash, or large, fluid-filled blisters on the skin. Common areas of involvement include the groin, axillae (armpits), trunk, thighs, and forearms. The skin condition may be localized to a small area or widespread on the body throughout. The condition typically affects older individuals over the age of 60. In some cases, the condition can be triggered by certain medications. Treatment options include both topical and oral steroids as well as other systemic medications.

Contact dermatitis is a form of eczema that develops after the skin comes in contact with a substance that acts as an irritant or allergen. The affected areas become red, inflamed, and itchy. Swelling, blistering, crusting, and oozing can also occur. Irritant contact dermatitis is the more common type, with a rash developing after repeated exposure to an irritant such as a cleanser or soap. Allergic contact dermatitis can occur when a person is exposed to an allergen such as poison ivy, nickel, or certain ingredients in personal care products. Treatment includes avoiding irritants and/or allergens, establishing a gentle skin care routine, and using prescription medications.

Dermatitis herpetiformis is an autoimmune skin disease that causes recurrent, intensely itchy blisters to form on the elbows, knees, back, buttocks, and/or scalp. It is linked to the ingestion of gluten found in wheat. It can also occur with celiac disease and has been associated with thyroid disease. The condition is more common in men and people of northern European descent. Treatment includes adhering to a strict gluten-free diet. Oral medications such as dapsone are also commonly used to treat the condition.

Dermatomyositis is a rare disease that causes a skin rash and muscle weakness. The skin rash can present reddish to purplish, dusky discoloration and swelling of the eyelids, particularly the upper eyelids (heliotrope rash). A red rash may also appear on the chest, shoulder, neck or back. Affected individuals may develop pinkish purplish papules over the joints of the hands (Gottron papules) and ragged cuticles with associated nailfold redness. The scalp may be involved with inflammation, scaling, itching and thinning of the hair. The muscle weakness typically affects the muscles closest to the trunk, manifesting as difficulty getting up from a seated position, climbing stairs, raising arms above the shoulders (to brush or wash hair), and difficulty swallowing. Dermatomyositis is more common in women and Black Americans. Though it can be seen in children (juvenile dermatomyositis), the peak age group in adults is between the ages of 40 and 60. Adult onset dermatomyositis has a strong association with cancer and affected individuals should be screened for an underlying cancer. Treatment options include topical medications, systemic steroids, and other immune modulating or immune suppressing medications.

Dyshidrotic eczema is a form of eczema that manifests as intensely itchy blisters that develop on the sides of the fingers, toes, palms, or soles. It can be caused by atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, or an id reaction (reaction to a skin infection or skin rash at another site). The condition is most common in adults, but can also affect children. Treatments include eliminating underlying causes and treating with prescription topical and/or oral medications.

Eczema refers to a group of conditions characterized by dry, inflamed, and itchy skin. The most common kind of eczema is atopic dermatitis. Other forms of eczema include contact dermatitis, irritant dermatitis, nummular dermatitis, and dyshidrotic eczema. The term eczema is often used by people to refer to any of these conditions. Treatment depends on the type of eczema but includes topical moisturizers, topical steroids, and systemic medications if needed.

Folliculitis is the medical term for inflammation of a hair follicle. It typically presents as pink bumps or pustules (pus filled bumps) centered around a hair follicle. The condition can appear anywhere on the body where there are hairs, including on the face, chest, back, buttocks, and/or legs. The condition can be caused by infections (commonly bacteria or yeast), irritation, occlusion/blockage, or medications. Common treatment options include topical and/or oral antibiotics or antifungals.

Granuloma annulare is a harmless type of skin rash that often presents with ring-shaped lesions. Although the condition can appear anywhere on the skin, favored sites are the hands, feet, elbows, and ankles. It is typically found in children, teenagers, and young adults. Granuloma annulare is more prevalent in women. The exact cause for the condition is unknown. Various treatment options are available with the most common being topical medications and/or intralesional steroid injections.

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic inflammatory condition which presents with deep, painful nodules or lumps under the skin. The painful nodules can rupture, leading to drainage of pus and blood. Over time, the painful nodules can connect, forming tunnels under the skin. The condition often results in scarring of the affected areas. Lesions typically occur in the axillae (armpits), groin region, or in the inframammary areas (folds under the breasts). The condition typically presents at or shortly after puberty. It is more common in women and Blacks. The exact cause is unknown, but thought to be related to hormones and/or genetics. Being overweight and/or smoking can also exacerbate the condition. Treatment options include prescription medications, corticosteroid injections, laser therapy, and surgery.

If you experience sweating that seems more excessive than normal on your hands, feet, or armpits, you may have hyperhidrosis.

A board-certified dermatologist can help—read on to find out all about excessive sweating, what causes it, and treatment options to control your symptoms.

What is Hyperhidrosis?

Also known as excessive sweating, Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that occurs when your body cannot properly regulate its internal temperature.

Approximately 4.8% of all Americans experience hyperhidrosis, with the severity of symptoms varying from mild wetness to excess dripping.

The glands responsible for this excessive sweating are known as eccrine glands. They are located in areas like your:

• armpits
• palms of your hands
• soles of your feet
• face

Hyperhidrosis can affect your quality of life, which is why it's important to consider seeing a board-certified dermatologist, as they can help you determine the cause of your excessive sweating and provide treatment options to control the symptoms of your condition.

What are the Causes of Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis occurs when you sweat much more than what your body requires to regulate its homeostatic temperature mechanisms.

Hyperhidrosis can be of two main types:

• Primary hyperhidrosis
  This type of excessive sweating occurs due to the overactivity of your sympathetic nerves. And, since it occurs in specific areas like just your palms or soles of your feet, it may sometimes be referred to as primary focal hyperhidrosis.
• Secondary hyperhidrosis
  This type of hyperhidrosis is brought upon as a result of an underlying medical condition or due to the use of prescription medicines. Common medical conditions that may lead to secondary hyperhidrosis include:|
  • Thyroid issues
  • Low blood sugar
  • Neurological disorders
  • Menopause
  • Anxiety

Genetics may also play a role in the onset of hyperhidrosis.

What are the Symptoms of Hyperhidrosis?

Symptoms of hyperhidrosis include:

• Excessive sweating from your palms, armpits, under your breasts, and soles of your feet
• Excessive sweating on your face and head
• Generalized sweating (for those with secondary hyperhidrosis)

Depending on the severity of your symptoms, hyperhidrosis can variably effect your quality of life, social life, or emotional and mental health.

How is Diagnosed?

A board-certified dermatologist can help accurately diagnose your hyperhidrosis. A physical exam, in addition to a complete evaluation of your overall health, family history of the disease, and current medication use, are all common when you schedule an appointment with a certified doctor.

Treatment for Hyperhidrosis is Safe When Performed by a Board-Certified Dermatologist

Primary hyperhidrosis and secondary hyperhidrosis are treated differently, as the reason they occur is different. Your board-certified dermatologist will be able to diagnose what type of excessive sweating you have and recommend a treatment plan based on your symptoms.

Common types of treatment for hyperhidrosis include:

• Botox Injections
  Commonly used to treat excessive sweating in your hands and armpits, botox injections last for several months before you need to book another session.
• Topical Agents
  Commonly prescribed prescription-based medicines such as Drysol and Xerac are used to treat hyperhidrosis, with patients using it once or twice weekly to keep the symptoms of excessive sweating at bay.
• Iontophoresis
  This treatment uses electricity to turn off your sweat glands and is most commonly prescribed to patients experiencing excessive sweating in their hands and feet.

Intertrigo is a common rash found in the folds of the skin. Common areas of involvement include the groin, in the folds of the abdomen, and under the breasts. Because of the friction, warmth, and moisture in the skin folds, the affected areas become red and raw. Symptoms can also include itching and burning. The affected areas can be predisposed to secondary infection with yeast, fungus, or bacteria. Intertrigo can be caused by or aggravated by heat and humidity. Treatment involves trying to keep the area clean and dry, applying barrier creams, and using topical medications to treat the inflammation and any possible infection.

Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition characterized by rough, bumpy skin most often found on the back of the arms, thighs, and cheeks. It is a common finding in those with dry and sensitive skin. It typically affects children and teenagers and can improve or resolve over time. The condition is harmless and does not necessitate treatment. If bothersome, the use of a good moisturizer and over-the-counter or prescription topical medications can help improve the condition.

Lichen planus is an inflammatory condition that can affect the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes (such as the mouth and genital region). On the skin, it presents as small, pink to purple, itchy, flat-topped papules. Though the rash can appear anywhere (including on the genital skin), favored sites include the wrists, lower back, and ankles. In the mouth and genital region, the condition can present with erosions or ulcers (redness, rawness, and/or open sores). A characteristic finding is Wickham striae (white lines in a lacy like pattern) which can be seen both on the skin rash and in the mouth or genital region. Lichen planus can cause ridging, grooves, splitting, thinning, and/or scarring of the nails. It can also lead to tiny red bumps, scaling, and permanent hair loss on the scalp. Although the exact cause is unknown, it is postulated that the condition may be autoimmune. No cure currently exists, but various therapies are available to treat the condition, including both topical and oral medications.

Lichen simplex chronicus is a condition where repeated scratching or rubbing of a site creates a localized, itchy, thickened, leathery patch of skin. Lichen simplex chronicus can present as a solitary lesion or as multiple lesions—usually in areas that are easy to reach. The most commonly involved sites include the scalp and neck, groin (scrotum or vulva), forearms, shins, or ankles. The condition most commonly affects women between the ages of 30 and 50. It can occur in individuals without other medical or skin problems. However, it can also occur in patients with underlying psychiatric conditions (anxiety), itchy skin conditions (eczema), or other systemic diseases associated with itching. Treatment involves breaking the itch-scratch cycle. Antihistamines, topical medications, and intralesional steroid injections are commonly used therapies.

Lupus is a group of autoimmune diseases where the body’s own immune system attacks healthy tissue leading to inflammation and damage in the affected organs. Lupus can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, heart, lungs, and blood cells.

Types of lupus include:

• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
  This is the most common and also the most serious form of lupus, affecting not only the skin, but also other organ systems in the body. The signs, symptoms, and severity can vary depending on what organ systems are involved. Symptoms can also come and go with flare-ups and periods of remission. Affected individuals can present with a butterfly-shaped rash on the nose and cheeks of the face, swollen or painful joints, fever, and fatigue. More serious complications can include damage to the kidneys, seizures, stroke, or heart attack. Lupus is seen most commonly in young and middle-aged women. Blacks, Asians, Latinos, and Native Americans are more at risk of developing lupus. Treatment options include various systemic medications such as prednisone, antimalarial medications, immune suppressing drugs, and possibly biologics.

• Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus
  Cutaneous lupus erythematosus is a subset of lupus that affects the skin, manifesting as rashes. It can be further subclassified into:
  • Acute Cutaneous Lupus
    Acute cutaneous lupus is the skin rash associated with flare ups of systemic lupus erythematosus (see above). The classic presentation is the pink, butterfly-shaped rash on the nose and cheeks of the face. A rash can also appear on the arms, legs, or body.
  • Subacute Cutaneous Lupus (SCLE)
    In subacute cutaneous lupus, red, scaly, round, ring-shaped lesions can appear in a sun-exposed distribution such as on the neck, shoulders, and arm. The rash typically resolves without any scarring.
  • Chronic Cutaneous Lupus (Discoid Lupus)
    In discoid lupus, affected individuals develop red to purple, scaly, round lesions, most commonly on the scalp, face, and ears. These lesions heal with residual skin discoloration and scarring. In the scalp, it may cause permanent hair loss.

    Individuals with cutaneous lupus erythematosus should be routinely screened and monitored for systemic involvement (lupus involving other organs other than the skin). The skin rashes of lupus are photosensitive - meaning sun exposure and sunlight can exacerbate the condition and cause a flare. Treatment involves diligent and strict sun avoidance and sun protection. Topical medications and antimalarial medications are common therapies used to treat cutaneous lupus.

  • Drug-Induced Lupus
    Drug-induced lupus is lupus-like symptoms caused by certain medications. Affected individuals can present with similar symptoms as SLE including fever, fatigue, and joint pain. Some forms of drug-induced lupus cause only skin rashes similar to subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus and more rarely chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus. The most important treatment measure is to discontinue the medication, though symptoms can take many months to resolve even after stopping the medication.
  • Neonatal Lupus Erythematosus
    Neonatal lupus erythematosus occurs in infants born to mothers with certain autoantibodies; autoantibodies are immune proteins that mistakenly target and react with a person’s own tissue or organs. During pregnancy, the autoantibodies in the mother are passed to her unborn baby. Affected newborns can present with a skin rash, liver problems, or low blood counts. These symptoms are typically transient, resolving within months of delivery without long-term issues. Serious complications with long-term consequences can occur when neonatal lupus erythematosus affects the baby’s heart, causing congenital heart block (disruption of normal heart rate and rhythm). Congenital heart block does not resolve, and affected babies may eventually need a pacemaker.

Melasma is a common skin condition where affected individuals develop splotchy, irregularly shaped, brown patches on the face. Common areas of involvement include the forehead, cheeks, nose, jawline, chin, and upper lip. It typically affects women between the ages of 20 and 40, and is more common in medium to darker skin tones. The exact cause is unknown. However, sunlight and UV exposure as well as hormones (such as those related to pregnancy or birth control pills) seem to contribute to or exacerbate the condition. Treatment options include: strict sun avoidance and sun protection, various topical medications, oral supplements and/or oral medications, as well as procedures (chemical peels, lasers, intense pulsed light, microneedling, etc.).

Morphea, also known as localized scleroderma, is a rare condition that causes scar-like changes to the skin. Morphea commonly presents as oval lesions on the trunk (chest, abdomen, and/or back). It can also present as a linear stripe on the arms, legs, and even the forehead or scalp. In its initial inflammatory phase, morphea can appear as pink, purplish, or bruise-like patches of skin. The affected areas become white, firm, hard, thickened, and bound-down plaques. As the condition runs its course and the inflammation resolves, it may leave behind residual discoloration or scarring. The condition is most common in white females. The exact cause is unknown. Treatment options include topical therapies, phototherapy, and also systemic medications.

Nummular dermatitis is a type of eczema characterized by intensely itchy, red, scaly, and at times weeping or oozing, coin-shaped lesions. Nummular dermatitis typically affects the extremities, with the legs being the most common site of involvement. The condition can occur at any age, with men being affected slightly more often than women. Treatment options include prescription topical medications.

Pemphigus is a rare group of autoimmune skin diseases that causes painful blisters on the skin and/or mucous membranes (lips, mouth, esophagus, nose, eyes, genitals). The different types of pemphigus include: pemphigus vulgaris, pemphigus vegetans, pemphigus foliaceus, endemic pemphigus, pemphigus erythematosus, and paraneoplastic pemphigus. These conditions are characterized by fragile blisters that easily rupture, leading to painful sores which are slow to heal. Treatment options include both topical and oral steroids as well as other systemic medications.

Perioral dermatitis is a type of rash that typically presents as pink papules (small red bumps) and scaling around the mouth. In addition to affecting the area around the mouth, it can also appear around the nose or eyes and can be referred to as periorificial dermatitis. The exact cause of perioral dermatitis is unknown. However, the use of inhaled and topical steroids can trigger the condition. Though anyone can get perioral dermatitis, it is most common in young women and children. Treatment options include prescription topical medications and oral antibiotics.

Pityriasis alba is often thought of as a low grade form of eczema. It presents with ill-defined, light colored (hypopigmented), slightly scaly patches of skin most commonly found on the face. It affects mainly children and adolescents and is often more noticeable in darker skin tones or tanned skin. The condition is commonly found in people with dry skin or atopic dermatitis history. Treatment options include the use of a good moisturizer and over the counter or prescription topical medications.

Pityriasis rosea is a common, self-limited rash that typically begins with the appearance of a solitary, enlarging, circular, pink, scaly patch - known as the “herald patch”. In the following 1-2 weeks, numerous smaller, round to oval, pink, scaly patches appear, typically on the trunk in a Christmas-tree-like distribution. Occasionally, the condition can be accompanied by a sore throat or flu-like symptoms. Because the rash can be itchy, topical steroids and/or oral antihistamines can be used for symptomatic relief. But even without any treatment or intervention, the rash and associated symptoms resolve on their own, usually in 6-10 weeks time. Though pityriasis rosea can affect individuals at any age, it is most common in teenagers and young adults. The exact cause is unknown, but scientists believe it is likely caused by a virus.

Prurigo nodularis is a condition where repeated scratching or picking at a site creates itchy, raised, hard bumps on the skin. Prurigo nodularis can appear anywhere on the body, but is most commonly found on the arms, legs, trunk, or buttocks. The condition is more common in older individuals (over 50), Blacks, and those with certain long-term diseases (eczema, diabetes, kidney disease, Hepatitis C, HIV). Treatment involves breaking the itch-scratch cycle. Antihistamines, topical medications, and intralesional steroid injections are commonly used therapies.

Pseudofolliculitis barbae is a chronic inflammatory condition that predominantly affects Black men. Affected individuals develop pink papules and pustules around the hair follicles on the face and neck due to shaving. As the papules and pustules resolve, it can result in hyperpigmentation (darker discoloration) and scarring. The condition is thought to be caused by shaved hairs growing back and curling back into the skin, causing localized irritation and inflammation. Management of the condition focuses on discontinuing shaving if possible or adjusting shaving techniques to minimize the formation of new lesions. Treatment may include prescription medications, corticosteroid injections, and laser hair removal.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes your skin cells to multiply too quickly. As a result, your skin becomes itchy, flaky, and inflamed as this sped-up growth cycle interferes with the typical skin turnover process.

Psoriasis is not a contagious condition. It also cannot be spread from person-to-person contact. Instead, it occurs as a result of the overactivation of your immune system, resulting in the body attacking normal tissue.

What are the Symptoms of Psoriasis?
Common symptoms of psoriasis include:

Itchy patches of thick skin
Scaly, silvery, and flaky skin
Psoriasis patches typically present themselves on your face, neck, scalp, elbows, knees, palms, and feet. However, psoriasis plaques can grow anywhere on your body.

What are the Different Types of Psoriasis?
There are several different types of psoriasis:

Plaque psoriasis
The most commonly occurring type of psoriasis results in inflamed, red skin with white scales.
Guttate psoriasis
According to WebMD, less than 2% of all cases diagnosed are guttate psoriasis. It typically occurs most frequently in children or young adults.
Inverse psoriasis
This type of psoriasis appears on your armpits, groin, genital skin folds, and under the breasts. It is characterized by red patches of skin that are smooth but without scales or flaky.
Pustular psoriasis
An uncommon type of psoriasis results in pustules surrounded by red, inflamed skin. Pustular psoriasis is often accompanied by fever, chills, and nausea and requires immediate medical attention.
Erythrodermic psoriasis
A serious but uncommon type of psoriasis that affects a large part of your body. This results in severe itching and fiery skin that burns. Immediate medical attention is required as this severe type of psoriasis results in fluid loss, and changes to your heart rate and body temperature.
Nail psoriasis
It commonly occurs in people who have psoriatic arthritis. Results in tender nails that are yellow-brown in color with a chalk-like material under your nail beds.
Psoriatic arthritis
People with psoriatic arthritis have psoriasis along with arthritis or inflammation of the joints. Your chances of getting psoriatic arthritis increase when you have psoriasis.
How is Psoriasis Diagnosed?
Since psoriasis can look similar to other skin disorders such as eczema, getting a board-certified dermatologist to accurately diagnose your symptoms is important.

A physical exam is the first step in diagnosing your psoriasis, especially if you have scaly plaques of inflamed skin. During your appointment, a complete evaluation of your overall health and family history will also be discussed.

Your dermatologist may also recommend a skin biopsy to rule out the possibility of a skin infection.

Treatment for Psoriasis is Safe When Performed by a Board-Certified Dermatologist
A dermatologist can accurately diagnose your condition and recommend a treatment that's right for you.

Treatment of psoriasis depends on several factors, including:

The type of psoriasis
The amount of skin affected
The location of the psoriatic patches
The severity of the disease
The most common treatment options for psoriasis include:

Topical therapies, including creams, ointments, and lotions
Used to soothe the symptoms of psoriasis, including flaky skin.
Retinoids
Formed from vitamin A, retinoids are used to slow down the growth of skin cells, and lessen swelling and redness. They may also be prescribed to patients with nail psoriasis.
Phytotherapy
Involves the shining of UV light on your skin to slow down the skin cell growth process.
Biologics
These medications help decrease the chances of inflammation for people with moderate to severe psoriasis.

Rosacea is a common skin condition which presents with redness of the face, small visible blood vessels on the nose and cheeks, and pimple-like breakouts. Rosacea can also affect the eyes (ocular rosacea) presenting with symptoms such as dryness, redness, burning, and itching of the eyes. Rosacea most typically affects middle-aged women. Though the cause is unknown, treatment options are available including: prescription topical medications, prescription oral medications, and laser therapy.

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory condition where the immune system goes into overdrive, creating clusters of inflamed tissue called granulomas to form in different parts of the body. Though it can affect many organ systems such as the skin, eyes, heart, and nervous system, involvement of the lungs and lymph nodes is most common. Symptoms can vary depending on the organ system involved, with some individuals exhibiting no symptoms whatsoever. Symptoms can include: fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, weight loss, pain and swelling in the joints, persistent cough, shortness of breath, eye irritation, dry eyes, or blurry vision. Sarcoidosis can present with varied skin findings. It can present as lupus pernio (bluish red or purplish bumps and nodules over the nose, cheeks, and ears); small bumps that can be skin colored, red, reddish brown, or purplish in color; red, tender, nodules or lumps on the shins; or as a lump or bump within a pre-existing scar, tattoo, or piercing. Though the exact cause is unknown, genetics and the environment are thought to play a role in the development of sarcoidosis. Blacks and those of Scandinavian descent are more likely to develop sarcoidosis. It is also more common in women. Treatment options vary from topical medications to intralesional steroid injections to systemic therapies.

Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune condition that causes the hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissue underneath it. The condition can also impact underlying blood vessels and organs. Affected individuals may exhibit Raynaud’s phenomenon - a condition where the fingers and toes may become numb and cool and turn white or blue in color as a response to cold temperatures or other stressors. Patients may notice gradual hardening and tightening of the skin that first begins on the fingers, hands, feet, and face resulting in the hands taking on a claw-like appearance. Additional skin findings may include sores on the fingertips, calcium deposits beneath the skin (hard, painful lumps in the skin), and small broken blood vessels known as telangiectasias on the face and hands. The condition can also affect the digestive system, heart, lungs, kidneys, and/or the joints, manifesting with various symptoms such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, abnormal heartbeats, heart failure, shortness of breath, kidney failure, and/or restricted movement and mobility. While no cure exists for scleroderma, various medications are available to help treat symptoms and prevent further complications.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a very common skin condition which presents with itchy, red patches of skin, greasy scales, and flaking. Common areas of involvement include the scalp, ears, eyebrow region, and sides of the nose. It typically occurs in infants younger than 3 months of age and in adults ages 30-60. In infants, the condition is commonly referred to as “cradle cap.” When occurring on the scalp in adolescents and adults, seborrheic dermatitis is often called “dandruff.” The exact cause of the condition is unknown, but Malassezia (a yeast commonly found on our skin), excess oil production, or an immune mediated response may be contributing factors. Though the condition is chronic, treatment options are available including dandruff shampoos and topical medications.

Stasis dermatitis is a type of eczema that develops on the lower legs as a result of poor circulation. In affected people, the valves in the deep leg veins that help push blood back to the heart begin to fail, leading to the leakage of fluid, varicose veins, and subsequent swelling of the lower legs. Early skin changes include a reddish brown discoloration. A red, scaly, itchy rash called stasis dermatitis can appear on the lower legs. Left untreated, open sores known as venous ulcers can develop. Permanent skin changes can also occur such as thickening, hardening, or a cobblestone-like appearance to the skin. Treatment includes identifying and treating the cause of the circulation problems. Compression stockings and prescription topical medications are commonly used to treat stasis dermatitis.

Stretch marks are a type of scar that occurs when the skin stretches rapidly. Examples include: growth spurts during puberty, pregnancy, rapid weight loss or gain, and bodybuilding. It can appear as pinkish, purplish, or flesh colored linear bands or streaks on the skin that are depressed or indented. Common sites of involvement include arms (near the armpits), medial thighs (near the groin), abdomen, breasts, hips, and buttocks. Stretch marks do not require treatment and often fade and become less noticeable over time, even without any intervention.

Urticaria is the medical term for hives - a common skin rash which presents with itchy pink welts. The welts can vary in size, shape, and distribution. A defining characteristic is that the individual lesions are transient, appearing and resolving within a 24 hour period. So, even though an individual may suffer from hives for weeks or even months, each welt will resolve within the timeframe of a day, only for new lesions to appear in its place.

Urticaria can be classified as acute (lasting less than 6 weeks) or chronic (lasting more than 6 weeks). Acute urticaria is commonly caused by infections, foods, medications, or insect stings/bites. Chronic urticaria is mainly idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown. In some people, certain physical stimuli such as heat, cold, exercise, sun exposure, or pressure can induce hives. Treatments include avoiding triggers and/or allergens and the use of antihistamines (either over the counter or by prescription). For severe or recalcitrant cases, oral prednisone and other immune modulating medications may be used.

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease which causes the loss or inactivation of pigment producing cells in the skin, resulting in light or white patches of skin and hair. The degree and severity of pigment loss can vary from person to person. In some, it is localized to a small area or streak. In others, the pigment loss can be more generalized or even universal. Common areas of involvement include the face (especially around the eyes, nose, and mouth), hands, feet, and genitals. Vitiligo can also affect the hair, leading to white hair on the scalp, eyebrows, or eyelashes. Though no cure exists today, various therapies are available, with the most common being topical medications and/or phototherapy.