DermNote

Why does dry skin occur? Dry skin can occur for a variety of reasons. Dryness in the surrounding air predisposes to dryness of the skin. The low humidity air in the wintertime makes dry skin a problem for many people. Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to dry skin as well. As we all [...]

What is keratosis pilaris? Keratosis pilaris is a normal skin condition which presents as small dry rough bumps of the arms, thighs or legs. These bumps can become itchy. Keratosis pilaris is likely caused by follicles that produce too much keratin which collects in the follicles. It may be found in people that also have [...]

What are keloids? Keloids are benign growths that form after skin injury. People who have a family member with keloids, or those of African or Asian descent are more likely to develop keloids. Any skin injury including acne, surgeries, minor scratches, or needle wounds can lead to a keloid in a predisposed person. What are [...]

What is onychomycosis? Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail. Toenails are more commonly affected than fingernails. The infection can affect one or more nails, but rarely affects all nails. Individuals who attend public pools, gyms, or showers, have underlying nail disease or trauma, wear occlusive footwear, live in warm climates, have an impaired [...]

What is vitiligo? Vitiligo is a skin condition in which areas of the skin lose color (pigment) resulting in white spots. The loss of skin color is due to the death of cells called melanocytes which make skin pigment. The cause of vitiligo is unknown, but doctors and scientists think it may be a disorder [...]

What is Poison Ivy, Oak, or Sumac dermatitis? Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, and Poison Sumac are related plant species found throughout the United States that can cause an intensely itchy rash when exposed to the skin. The rash, known as an allergic contact dermatitis, arises because the plants contain an oil called urushiol that causes [...]

What are skin tags? Skin tags are skin-colored or brownish soft outpouchings of skin. They are frequently found around the neck, armpits or groin area. They are common and are not harmful. However, many people are annoyed by skin tags as they can be irritated by rubbing, or getting caught on clothing. What causes skin [...]

What is a dermatofibroma? A dermatofibroma is a benign growth of the skin. It is firm, can be skin-colored, reddish or brown, and can be raised or depressed. They are most commonly found on the legs in adults. What causes dermatofibroma? Some individuals will report trauma to the area from shaving, or an insect bite [...]

What is alopecia areata? Alopecia areata is a skin condition that typically causes round patches of hair loss, usually on the scalp. For unknown reasons, the body’s own immune system attacks the follicles that the hair grows from, and forces these hairs to shed. The extent and duration of hair loss in alopecia areata is [...]

What is scleroderma? Scleroderma is a disorder of the immune system that causes thickening and hardening of the connective tissue in the skin and organs of the body. The exact cause remains unknown. Scleroderma is not contagious, inherited or passed down in families. It occurs more frequently in women than in men. Scleroderma can be [...]