Areas Of Special Interest

Acne · Warts · Nails · Nail Disorders · Psoriasis · Skin Of Color · Cosmetics and Contact Dermatitis
  

Warts are non-cancerous skin growths caused by a viral infection in the top layer of the skin or mucous membranes. Viruses that cause warts belong to a "family" called human papillomavirus (HPV). The appearance of a wart depends on where it is growing. Warts are usually skin-colored and feel rough to the touch, but they can be dark, flat and smooth. (more on warts)
 

Nails in good condition can be very attractive. Aside from their cosmetic appeal, nails serve many important functions. They help us pick up and manipulate objects and support the tissues of the fingers and toes. Importantly, nails often reflect our general state of health as well. (more on nails)
 

NAIL DISORDERS

Due to their exposed location, nails take a lot of abuse. Nail disorders comprise about 10 percent of all skin conditions.

Most of us, at one time or another, have closed fingers in doors, suffered from ingrown toenails or endured minor nail infections. Most minor nail injuries heal on their own in time - although they might be unsightly for a while due to the nail's slow growth rate. More serious injuries or disorders may require professional treatment. Symptoms that could signal nail problems include color or shape changes, swelling of the skin around the nails and pain.

Additionally, the persistence of white lines, dents or ridges in the nail should be reported to a dermatologist. (more on nail disorders)
 

Psoriasis is a persistent skin disease that got its name from the Greek word for "itch." The skin becomes inflamed, producing red, thickened areas with silvery scales, most often on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.

In some cases, psoriasis is so mild that people don't know they have it. At the opposite extreme, severe psoriasis may cover large areas of the body. Doctors can help even the most severe cases.

Psoriasis cannot be passed from one person to another, though it is more likely to occur in people whose family members have it. In the United States two out of every hundred people have psoriasis (four to five million people). Approximately 150,000 new cases occur each year. (more on psoriasis)
 

Most skin diseases that occur in Caucasians also occur in Hispanics and African-Americans. Certain problems, though, are more common in skin of color. (more on skin of color)
 

Cosmetics and skin care products are part of most people's daily grooming habits. The average adult uses at least seven different skin care products each day. These include fragrances, astringents, moisturizers, sunscreens, skin cleansers, hair care items, deodorants/antiperspirants, colored cosmetics, hair cosmetics and nail cosmetics.

Most people experience few problems from these products. Dermatologists estimate that problems arise in only .021% of all people.

Problems can arise, however, either with the first few applications, or after years of use. Most people know which product is causing difficulty; severe reactions may require the skills of a dermatologist. (more on cosmetics and contact dermatitis)