close up women with beautiful face

Dermatology

Dermatology encompasses a broad spectrum of skin, hair, and nail conditions, addressing everything from common concerns like acne, eczema, and psoriasis to more complex issues such as hair loss and nail disorders. Dermatologists play a crucial role in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of skin cancer, including melanoma and basal cell carcinoma. They perform essential surgical procedures to remove moles, cysts, and cancerous growths, and conduct biopsies to aid in diagnosis.

In addition to medical treatments, dermatology also offers cosmetic services designed to enhance appearance and boost confidence. These include Botox injections, dermal fillers, laser therapies for skin resurfacing, scar reduction treatments, and comprehensive skin rejuvenation techniques.

Pediatric dermatology specifically focuses on treating skin conditions prevalent in children, such as birthmarks and eczema. Dermatologists are also pivotal in providing preventive care, offering skin cancer screenings and educating patients on effective sun protection to prevent skin damage.

Additionally, dermatologists often identify and treat skin issues linked to internal health conditions.

Dermatology Catalog

Hair Loss (Alopecia)

Hair loss, also known as alopecia, involves the thinning or shedding of hair from the scalp and other body parts. It can develop gradually or suddenly and varies widely in severity. Hair loss affects both men and women of all ages and can be influenced by a variety of factors. The condition can be temporary or permanent, largely depending on its underlying cause. Various types of hair loss exist, each characterized by specific patterns and effects.

Symptoms

  • Thinning Hair: Gradual thinning of hair on the scalp, especially on the top or crown.
  • Receding Hairline: Hair loss that starts from the forehead, often shaping into an "M" pattern.
  • Bald Spots: Random or circular patches where hair is completely missing.
  • Excessive Shedding: Observably more hair falls out during routine activities like washing or combing.
  • Dandruff or Scalp Irritation: Associated with flaking, itching, or redness, often due to conditions like seborrheic dermatitis.
  • Hair Breakage: Strands that become brittle and break, leading to uneven hair length.
  • Visible Scalp: As hair thins, more of the scalp becomes visible, particularly around the hairline.
  • Overall Hair Loss: Extensive hair loss that may result from severe conditions like alopecia areata or as a side effect of medical treatments such as chemotherapy.

Management and Treatment

While hair loss can be distressing, it is often treatable with a variety of effective methods depending on the underlying cause. Topical treatments like minoxidil and prescription medications such as finasteride are commonly used for pattern baldness, offering significant improvements in hair density and growth. For more severe or persistent hair loss, advanced treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, laser therapy, or hair transplant surgery may be recommended. Consulting with a specialist is essential to tailor a treatment plan that not only combats hair loss but also aligns with your individual health profile and hair growth goals, ensuring optimal results and satisfaction.

women with thinning hair
acne on cheek

Acne

Acne, commonly known as a skin condition that results from the clogging of hair follicles with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, leads to inflammation and a variety of blemishes. These include blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, nodules, or cysts. Typically appearing on the face, chest, and back—areas rich in oil-producing glands—acne is most prevalent during adolescence, triggered by hormonal changes that increase oil production. While primarily a cosmetic concern, if left untreated, acne can significantly affect self-esteem and may cause permanent scarring.

Symptoms

  • Pimples: Raised spots with pus, most frequently seen on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders.
  • Blackheads (Open Comedones): Small, dark spots caused by the open clogs of pores, noticeable on the skin's surface.
  • Whiteheads (Closed Comedones): Firm, flesh-colored bumps formed when pores are completely sealed.
  • Cysts: Deep, painful, pus-filled lesions, prone to causing severe scarring due to their depth and inflammation.
  • Nodules: Solid, painful lumps below the skin's surface, more severe and persistent than regular pimples.
  • Redness and Inflammation: Often surrounding the acne lesions, making the skin appear swollen and red.
  • Scarring: Post-acne marks, including dark spots and deep pits, which can remain after acne has healed.
  • Oiliness: Excessive sebum production leading to a shiny appearance, particularly noted in the "T-zone" area of the forehead, nose, and chin.

Management and Treatment

While there is no one-size-fits-all cure for acne, effective management is possible through a combination of topical treatments, oral medications, and careful skin care routines. Over-the-counter products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can be effective for mild acne, while more severe cases might require prescription antibiotics or isotretinoin. For those struggling with persistent acne, dermatological procedures such as chemical peels, laser therapy, or photodynamic therapy may offer additional relief. Consulting with a dermatologist is crucial to tailor a treatment plan that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of acne, ensuring long-term improvement and prevention of scarring.

Toe Nail Fungus (Onychomycosis)

Toe nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection that occurs beneath the surface of the toenail. Caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, or molds that thrive in warm, moist environments—such as inside shoes or socks—the infection often starts subtly without immediate pain or noticeable symptoms. It may begin as a minor discoloration or slight thickening of the toenail. If left untreated, toe nail fungus can worsen, spreading to other nails and causing changes in the nail’s color, texture, and shape.

Symptoms

  • Discoloration: The toenail may exhibit changes, turning white, yellow, brown, or even black.
  • Thickening: Affected nails become unusually thick, complicating trimming efforts.
  • Brittleness: Nails may turn brittle, crumbly, or fragile, and can break easily.
  • Distorted Shape: The shape of the nail may become irregular or misshapen.
  • Foul Odor: An unpleasant smell may emanate from the toenail if the infection is present.
  • Nail Lifting: The nail may detach from the nail bed, either partially or completely.
  • Texture Changes: The nail’s surface may become rough, uneven, or pitted.
  • Pain or Discomfort: The infection may cause pain or discomfort, particularly if the nail is thickened or the infection is severe.
  • Cracking or Splitting: The skin around the nail can crack or split, exacerbated by the fungal infection.

Management and Treatment

While toenail fungus can be a persistent condition, it is effectively manageable with the right combination of treatments and preventive measures. Initial treatment often includes topical antifungal agents or medicated nail polishes, particularly effective for mild cases. For more persistent infections, oral antifungal medications or advanced options like laser therapy may be necessary to eliminate the fungus. Regular foot care, maintaining dry feet, and using antifungal sprays or powders are essential preventative strategies. We recommend consulting with our specialists for a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your specific needs, ensuring sustained management and prevention of future infections.

toes with toenail fungus
dry red skin

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchy, red, and inflamed skin. It primarily affects children but can occur at any age. Eczema may result from genetic factors combined with an overactive immune response to environmental triggers like allergens, irritants, and temperature changes. Those with a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies are particularly susceptible. The condition typically causes the skin to become dry, scaly, and thickened, often impacting areas such as the face, hands, and elbows.

Symptoms

  • Itching: Intense itching is often the first symptom, leading to further skin irritation.
  • Red, Inflamed Skin: Skin appears red, irritated, and swollen, especially during flare-ups.
  • Dryness: Skin becomes dry, rough, and flaky.
  • Cracking or Bleeding: Skin can crack, bleed, or weep, especially if it's scratched or irritated.
  • Thickened Skin: Skin may thicken or become leathery due to prolonged scratching.
  • Rashes: Small, raised bumps may appear and the skin may become more sensitive over time.
  • Scaly Patches: Skin can become scaly or have dry, raised patches.
  • Discoloration: Skin color may darken or lighten in areas that have been affected.
  • Swelling: Swelling can occur around the affected areas, particularly during flare-ups.

Management and Treatment

While there is no cure for eczema, it can be effectively managed with topical treatments, moisturizers, and lifestyle adjustments to minimize exposure to triggers. In more severe cases, prescription medications or light therapy may be necessary to control symptoms and prevent exacerbations. Consulting with a dermatologist is recommended for a tailored treatment plan and long-term management strategies.