Alopecia (hair loss) A condition that causes hair to fall out in small patches, which can be unnoticeable. These patches may connect, however, and then become noticeable. The condition develops when the immune system attacks the hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat are the main causes of alopecia? An abnormality in the immune system that damages hair…
Cysts A sac-like pocket of membranous tissue that contains fluid, air, or other substances. Cysts can grow almost anywhere in your body or under your skin. There are many different types of cysts. Most cysts are benign, or noncancerous. Frequently Asked QuestionsHow long do cysts last? A cyst may form if a sac doesn't break open to release an egg. It may keep growing for a while.…
Discoloration Discolored skin patches are irregular areas where there are changes in skin color. They are a common problem with a wide array of potential causes. Some of the more common causes of changes in skin color are illness, injury, and inflammatory problems. Discolored skin patches also commonly develop in a certain part of the body due to a difference…
Eczema A condition that makes your skin red and itchy. It's common in children but can occur at any age. Atopic dermatitis is long-lasting (chronic) and tends to flare periodically. It may be accompanied by asthma or hay fever. No cure has been found for atopic dermatitis. Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the main cause of eczema? Certain substances or conditions…
Tinea Tinea is the name of a group of diseases caused by a fungus. Types of tinea include ringworm, athlete's foot, and jock itch. These infections are usually not serious, but they can be uncomfortable. You can get them by touching an infected person, from damp surfaces such as shower floors, or even from a pet. Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat does tinea look like?…
Granuloma Annulare A skin condition that causes raised reddish or skin-colored bumps (lesions) in a ring pattern. The bumps are usually on the hands and feet. Minor skin injuries and some drugs might trigger the condition. Different types affect adults and children. Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat triggers granuloma annulare? The exact cause of granuloma annulare is unknown (idiopathic). Numerous theories exist linking the cause to trauma, sun…
Herpes Genital herpes is a common and highly contagious infection usually spread through sex. This infection is usually caused by the herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) or the herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), the virus usually responsible for cold sores. Genital herpes treatment includes medicines to help sores heal faster and prevent outbreaks. Frequently Asked QuestionsCan herpes go away? Yes. Genital herpes symptoms can come and go,…
Acne Inversa A chronic skin condition featuring lumps in places such as the armpits or groin. The skin lesions develop because of inflammation and infection of sweat glands. This condition features pea- to marble-sized lumps under the skin that can be painful and tend to enlarge and drain pus. They usually occur where skin rubs together, such as in the…
Hives Hives (urticaria) are red, itchy welts that result from a skin reaction. The welts vary in size and appear and fade repeatedly as the reaction runs its course. The condition is considered chronic hives if the welts appear for more than six weeks and recur frequently over months or years. Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the main cause of urticaria?…
Keloidal Scar Any time dark skin is cut or burned, there's an increased risk of keloids -- a scar that spreads beyond the boundary of the original injury and develops into a growth. Symptoms may include itching, pain, burning, and tenderness at the site. Keloids are thought to be linked to a defect in collagen production. Treatments include cortisone injections,…