Dermatology

Psoriasis and eczema are skin conditions characterized by redness, inflammation, and itching. Although both conditions produce similar symptoms and are often treated the same way, they are different ailments with disparate causes. Because psoriasis and eczema appear much the same, it usually takes the trained eye of a dermatologist to tell them apart. Here, we ... Read more

Have you noticed dark spots on your face, whether from sun exposure, acne scars or hormonal changes? There are a multitude of products available that claim they can “bleach” those spots away – but they are not all created equal. Kojic acid is a natural product that has gained popularity as a skin lightening agent. ... Read more

What Is Glycolic Acid? Glycolic acid is a natural, alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. Alpha hydroxy acids are used for exfoliation, sloughing the upper layer from the skin to reveal brighter, fresher skin underneath. Glycolic acid is the most common alpha hydroxy acid peel because it has the smallest molecular weight, allowing ... Read more

Heat rash, also known as miliaria, is a relatively common skin condition in which the skin develops clusters of tiny blisters surrounded by red skin. It can be very itchy, hence the name “prickly heat,” but it’s generally not dangerous. If you suspect that you or your infant have heat rash, this article should give ... Read more

Pools are synonymous with sunshine, vacations and the dog days of summer. They’re refreshing sanctuaries that offer relief from the seasonal heat. However, to safely enjoy the benefits of pool life, you need to ensure that the pool water is free of bacterial contamination and does not increase your risk of getting a rash. We ... Read more

What are sea lice? The name alone is a source of worry, conjuring up exotic images of water-borne parasites and memories of having one’s hair quarantined at school. In fact, “lice” is a misnomer here, a catch-all term for various small sea critters that has stuck, despite being incorrect. The creature behind this rash is ... Read more

While certain products may play a part in triggering allergic reactions, there are other causes of swelling to be aware of and ways you can minimize that risk. What causes lip swelling? The lips, as board-certified Chicago dermatologist Dr. Lauren Fine explains, are a vulnerable part of the body: “It is a heavily vascular area, ... Read more

What is Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra? Dermatosis papulosa nigra (DPN), a benign, cutaneous condition that often affects black adults, involves the appearance of soft brown papules on the skin, particularly around the cheekbones and eyes. These papules are harmless, benign growths, but they can be itchy and scratching or scraping the affected area just irritates them ... Read more

Cryotherapy facials—aka frotox—are the newest installment in celebrity facial trends. Liquid nitrogen is used to blast a near-freezing stream of air on the face. This is reported to result in a wide range of benefits, from less prominent pores to improved blood flow. Here we will explain the history of cryotherapy and what to expect ... Read more

The name porokeratosis, meaning scaly pore, was originally given to areas of abnormal skin tissue, or lesions, thought to develop from the pores of sweat glands. We know now that porokeratosis was misnamed—it has no relation to pores. It’s a rare skin disorder that affects the maturation of skin cells, producing lesions with distinctive raised ... Read more