Skin Conditions

Actinic keratosis is a rough, scaly patch that develops after years of sun exposure. Because some lesions can progress to squamous cell carcinoma, areas that persist, change, become tender, or repeatedly crust are worth having examined by a dermatologist.

Acne develops when pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or deeper lesions. If breakouts are persistent, painful, leave scars, or not improving with at-home care, dermatologic treatment may help.

Alopecia refers to hair loss, which can appear as gradual thinning, distinct bald patches on the scalp, or widespread shedding. Many different factors can contribute to hair loss, so new, unexplained, or persistent changes are worth evaluating to identify the cause and appropriate treatment.

Cysts are typically enclosed bumps beneath the skin that may contain fluid or other material, while lipomas are usually soft, fatty growths. Both are often harmless, but a growing, painful, inflamed, or otherwise changing lump should be evaluated by a doctor.

Eczema and dermatitis describe conditions that cause inflamed skin, often resulting in itching, dryness, redness, scaling, or irritation. If symptoms keep returning, interfere with daily life, or do not respond to your skincare routine, a dermatologist can help identify potential causes.

Most moles are harmless, but knowing what is normal for your skin makes it easier to recognize when something is unusual. A mole that changes in size, shape, or color, or begins itching, bleeding, or otherwise behaving differently, deserves a closer look from a dermatologist.

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition that commonly causes thick, scaly, discolored patches of skin. Symptoms can come and go throughout your life. If you suspect psoriasis or your current treatment is not controlling your symptoms, dermatologic care may help.

Rosacea is a chronic condition that commonly causes facial redness or flushing and may also produce visible blood vessels or acne-like bumps. If facial redness keeps returning, becomes persistent, or is accompanied by other symptoms, a dermatologist can determine the cause.

Keloids are raised scars that grow beyond the boundaries of the original skin injury. They can develop after cuts, piercings, surgery, acne, or other skin trauma. If a scar continues growing, becomes uncomfortable, or bothers you, it may be worth discussing treatment.

Changes in your fingernails or toenails can have many causes, including infection, injury, inflammatory conditions, and other concerns. Persistent discoloration, thickening, splitting, lifting, pain, or changes in nail shape can be good reasons to schedule an evaluation.

Warts are skin growths caused by certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), while skin tags are small, typically harmless growths. If a growth becomes painful, irritated, changes unexpectedly, or you are simply unsure what it is, having it examined can provide clarity.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and frequently develops on sun-exposed skin. It may resemble a pearly bump, a non-healing sore, or an unusual patch. Any persistent or changing spot should be evaluated, particularly after significant sun exposure.

Squamous cell carcinoma is a common skin cancer that often appears on areas with substantial sun exposure. It may look like a scaly patch, firm growth, or sore that does not heal. Early evaluation of a suspicious or changing lesion is critical.

Melanoma is a potentially serious form of skin cancer that develops in pigment-producing cells. It may appear as a new spot or a changing existing mole. Changes in a mole’s shape, border, color, or size should prompt a professional skin evaluation.