Acne is a common skin condition that happens when hair follicles under the skin become clogged. Acne causes several types of lesions, or pimples. Medications and other procedures such as laser and light therapies are the most common treatments. The goals of treatment are to help heal lesions, stop new lesions from forming, and prevent scarring.

Acne scars can form as a result of inflamed acne blemishes, or picking at any acne lesions. Almost 95% of patients with acne will experience some form of scarring.

Inflamed acne blemishes are caused when the skin pores become overloaded with excess oil, dead skin cells and bacteria. The pore swells, which causes a break in the follicle wall. If the lesion is shallow, it usually heals quickly. However, if there is a deep break in the pore wall, infected material can spill out into the surrounding tissue and create a deeper lesion. The skin attempts to repair these lesions by forming new collagen fibers. These repairs are not as smooth and flawless as the original skin, resulting in acne scarring.

There is no way to prevent scarring, but you can do certain things to keep scars from getting worse. Stay out of the sun. Overexposure to the sun can darken scars and make them look more prominent. You should avoid irritating the inflamed skin. Over-washing or scrubbing scarred areas can further reduce skin elasticity and heighten the appearance of the scar.

Treatments include laser treatments, minor skin surgeries, chemical peels, dermabrasion and fillers.

Benign growths are any of a wide variety of abnormal skin growths or pigmentation that can be present at birth or appear later in life. They can appear as bumps, moles, freckles, discolored areas, or keloid scars. Though most pose no risk, an unusual growth or discoloration should be checked by a qualified dermatologist to ensure that cancer cells are not present.

Dr. Terracina is a board-certified dermatologist who will provide precise diagnosis of any benign growth and design a treatment plan that will provide the best results for eliminating the growth. If you have an unusual growth or other skin condition, contact The Skin Institute today to schedule an appointment to receive accurate and effective diagnosis and treatment.

A blister is a raised piece of skin that is filled with a clear fluid. Blisters can form anywhere on the body but most commonly on feet or hands. They’re often filled with clear fluid to help them to heal but can also be filled with blood (blood blisters) or pus caused by infection.

Blisters are caused by excessive rubbing or other irritation of the skin and can be found on anyone. They are likely to be found on places of the body that sweat the most. Covering them with a bandage and avoiding any friction with the affected area is usually enough to treat the blister.

See a doctor if you have infected blisters, reoccurring blisters, blisters in unusual places, blistering caused by severe sunburn, burns or scalds.

Cutaneous candidiasis is a skin infection caused by a fungus and includes vaginal yeast infection, diaper rash, and nail infections. An itching rash with pimple-like bumps that continues to grow or spread may be a sign of cutaneous candidiasis. Rash on the skin folds, genitals, middle of the body, buttocks, under the breasts, and other areas of skin or infection of the hair follicles that may look like pimples can also be signs.

Maintaining good general Health and proper hygiene are important. Try to keep your body exposed to air. Losing weight, proper hygiene, powders that dry out the skin, and a lifestyle change may help treat the rash. Proper blood sugar control can be helpful to those with diabetes. Antifungal creams and medications are also available.

A dermatofibroma forms in the layer of skin below the epidermis, and is a growth of the dermis' fibrous tissues. Dermatofibromas are harmless and not cancerous. Sometimes, if the diagnosis is not certain, a portion of the lesion may be removed for tissue analysis (biopsy). When a dermatofibroma becomes bothersome, such as getting in the way of leg shaving or being irritated by clothing, it can be flattened with simple office treatment to destroy the upper part of the growth or be completely removed by cutting the lesion out.

If a person is worried about a bump like this, a dermatologist should be able to diagnose it visibly. While they are not often harmful, dermatofibromas ca be removed surgically to determine if it is a cancerous bump on the person’s body.

Treatment is not often necessary for dermatofibromas, as some disappear with time. However, if treatment or removal is necessary or desired, there are a few ways that it can be done.

Dermatographia is a condition in which lightly scratching your skin causes raised, red lines where you've scratched. It is not serious, but can be uncomfortable. In dermatographia, your skin cells are overly sensitive to minor injury, such as scratching. Signs and symptoms of dermatographia include redness, itching and swelling, similar to hives.

In most cases, dermatographia symptoms go away in a short time and you don’t need treatment. However, if symptoms are severe or bothersome there are medications which we can prescribe. Some simple self-care measures can also help you manage this skin condition.

The symptoms of dermatographia sometimes go away on their own and treatment for dermatographia may not be necessary. However, if the condition is severe or bothersome, your physician may recommend antihistamine medications, and occasionally, topical or internal cortisone.

Eczema, often referred to as dermatitis, is a condition that causes the skin to become irritated and inflamed. Causes of eczema are varied. Eczema usually results from an allergic reaction to any number of substances, including medications, the glues and other chemical agents used in many products, and natural sources such as poison ivy.

At The Skin Institute, Dr. Terracina performs skin testing to pinpoint the cause of eczema. Then he provides state-of-the-art treatment with advanced laser phototherapy as well as highly effective medications. Once we know the source of your eczema and effectively treat it at The Skin Institute, we will provide you with at-home protocols so that you can avoid a recurrence.

Epidermoid cysts are benign bumps under the outer layer of the skin. These bumps will enlarge slowly over time and should not be painful. They can appear anywhere on the skin, but are most common on the face, neck, and trunk. Epidermoid cysts are usually caused by a buildup of keratin, a protein that occurs naturally in skin cells, leaving the skin and hair follicle damaged. The damage can also be caused by acne or excessive exposure to the sun. Some genetic disorders or skin wounds may also increase risk.

Cysts can swell and itch, while appearing on the skin as small red bumps with tiny black openings through which an odorous substance can be emitted. Most do not cause problems or require treatment, but see a doctor if you have one that:

• Grows rapidly
• Ruptures, becomes painful, or gets infected
• Occurs in an area under constraint irritation
• Humidity and environmental pollutants
• Bothers you for cosmetic reasons

A doctor should be able to diagnose a cyst by sight, but may need to do a biopsy to diagnose more serious concerns. Treatment options include injections, incisions and drainages, minor surgery, and laser treatments.

Source: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

Folliculitis happens when a hair follicle becomes inflamed due to shaving, rubbing against clothing, or other activities that cause friction against the skin. In most cases, the damaged hair follicles become infected with fungus or Staphylococcus, a type of bacteria. These areas can present themselves as acne pimples or non-healing sores. Certain factors make people more susceptible to the condition, including:

• Underlying medical conditions
• Acne or dermatitis
• Previous skin damage
• Prescribed medications
• Being overweight
• Clothes that trap heat and sweat
• Shaving, waxing, or hair-plucking

Folliculitis resembles either acne pimples or non-healing crusty sores, which are typically accompanied by an itchy rash. Short-term infections are often bacterial in nature and can be resolved with oral antibiotics or topical antibiotic creams. Chronic or recurring infections require stronger doses along with some prevention methods to prevent infection. Avoid tight clothing, shaving, hot tubs, and pools, while keeping the area clean to prevent folliculitis.

Source: American Academy of Dermatology
Source: American Osteopathic College of Dermatology
Source: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

Alopecia areata is a disease that causes hair loss. Its cause is unknown, but it has been linked in some cases to stress and seborrheic dermatitis. Individuals who have alopecia areata usually exhibit no other symptoms aside from hair loss, and they are generally in good health. Hair usually grows back after a bout of the disease, but growth is typically very slow.

Dr. Terracina can treat alopecia areata hair loss with cortisone injections. Cortisone protects the hair roots and stimulates them to resume creating hair. Dr. Terracina typically performs injection treatments once a month for two to six months, depending on the extent of hair loss and the patient's response to treatment. If hair loss is profound, Dr. Terracina may prescribe systemic medications to augment the cortisone treatments. You can learn more about Dr. Terracina's effective alopecia areata treatment, acne treatment, mole removal, and skin cancer treatment by contacting us at The Skin Institute.

Vascular birthmarks, or hemangiomas, become apparent during a child’s first year but usually fade as the child ages. They are red in color due to the excess blood vessels in the skin, and are usually found on the head and chest, but can be on any part of the body. While adults can also develop birthmarks, they are much smaller and more superficial. The hemangioma can be in the top layers of the skin (capillary hemangioma), deeper in the skin (cavernous hemangioma), or a mixture of both.

Although hemangiomas are usually harmless, they can become symptomatic if they ulcerate and bleed. If they are symptomatic or if there is concern for interference in vision, breathing, or hearing, there are treatment options to shrink hemangiomas:

• Laser treatments
• Steroid cream
• Topicals that constrict blood flow
• Beta-blockers can be used for treatment of more complicated hemangiomas

Source: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

Herpes simplex is a viral infection that is found in cold sores and fever blisters and is contagious even when sores are not visible. Herpes Simplex is given to another person by some kind of physical contact such as kissing, sharing items or sexual contact.

Anyone who comes into contact with the virus is at risk for contracting it. It is often passed on to young children by adults. Herpes Simples is most often spread through having sexual contact with someone who already has it. Someone who does not have a strong immune system, especially due to certain types of medication, is more susceptible to it than others. Herpes Simplex can be treated by an antiviral medication, but it cannot be cured. However, the sores will often go away on their own without treatment.

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is an inflammatory disease that causes deep and painful lumps under the skin, usually in the underarms, groin, breasts, and buttocks. Many people mistake the lumps for painful pimples or acne cysts. HS can also be misdiagnosed as boils, infected hair follicles (folliculitis), or a sexually transmitted disease.

Because HS is often mistaken for another condition, people can go years without getting the care they need. Without the right diagnosis and individualized treatment, HS can worsen. What starts out as one or two deep, painful, pimple-like lumps can turn into several lumps. In time, these lumps can break open and leak a foul-smelling liquid. The lumps can continue to return, rupture, and heal, and can cause significant deep scarring.

With an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment for HS, you can: prevent HS from worsening, relieve pain, heal wounds, and treat infection.

Excessive sweating is a medical condition called hyperhidrosis. Hyperhidrosis can be focal—limited to one area of the body—or generalized, meaning present over all parts of the body. Hyperhidrosis is normally an indicator or result of another disorder or condition in the body, but can be hereditary. This includes but is not limited to menopause, obesity, and nerve disorders. Due to menopause, women are more likely to be diagnosed with hyperhidrosis. This condition is also found in children and young teens.

There are several treatments for hyperhidrosis that a doctor may suggest. The most common would be an antiperspirant, which is applied to the skin and blocks the sweat glands in an attempt to get the body to stop producing sweat. A doctor might also suggest Iontophoresis or Botulinum toxin injections. Medication may be prescribed or surgery may be considered in some cases.

Impetigo is a common superficial bacterial skin infection. It is most commonly seen in children ages 2-5 but older children and adults can be infected. Impetigo is contagious, and is easily spread among individuals in close contact.

Impetigo is caused a bacterial infection, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes (also called group A streptococcus, which also causes strep throat). These bacteria are commonly found on your skin and in your nose, but can cause problems if it gets under the skin. Impetigo may affect skin anywhere on the body but commonly occurs around the nose and mouth, hands, and forearms, and in young children, the diaper area. Symptoms typically appear within 4-10 days after contact with the bacteria.

Impetigo usually is treated with antibiotic ointment. If the infection has spread to other areas of the body or the ointment isn't working, the doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics. To keep your child from spreading impetigo to other parts of the body, the doctor or nurse will probably recommend covering infected areas of skin with gauze and tape or a loose plastic bandage. Keep your child's fingernails short and clean to prevent scratching that could lead to infection.

Keratosis pilaris is an inherited skin condition that is more common in people with dry skin and eczema. Dry skin can occur at any age and for many reasons. Skin generally becomes drier as we age, during the winter, and in low-humidity climates such as the desert. Sometimes a dermatologist’s help is necessary to get relief from dry skin and keratosis pilaris.

Dry skin can have the following symptoms:

• Rough, scaly, or flaking skin.
• Itching.
• Gray, ashy appearance in people with dark skin.
• Cracks in the skin, which may bleed if severe.
• Chapped or cracked lip

Tips for dry skin care include: use mild soap, shave after bathing, moisturize right after washing, look for moisturizers with urea or lactic acid, use a humidifier, soothe chapped lips with petroleum jelly or mineral oil, and keep skin protected when outdoors in winter.

Lichen planus is a non-contagious rash of small bumps that forms on the skin in the mouth, or on the scalp or genitals. The cause of Lichen Planus is unknown, although it appears to be an autoimmune disease. There are several different types of Lichen Planus which all have different causes ranging from metal fillings in the mouth, family genes, and Hepatitis C.

Lichen Planus cannot be cured and does not need to be treated as it often goes away with time. However, there are antihistamines, ointments, pills, and light treatments that can be used to treat Lichen Planus if desired.

Lipomas are localized collections of fat cells below the surface of the skin that feel rubbery to touch. Sometimes they can be confused with cysts. Lipomas are usually harmless growths, but if they are growing quickly or are painful, they can be removed. They are bumps below the surface of the skin that can be felt rather than seen.

The majority of lipomas do not need treatment as they are benign lesions. However, if they are growing, painful, or bothersome to a patient, there are treatment options, including surgical excision or steroid injections. Surgical excision completely removes the lesion decreasing the chance of recurrence. Both of these treatments can be performed in a dermatologist’s office.

Melasma, or chloasma, is a skin condition that presents itself on the body as gray or brown spots. It is not a harmful disease, but it can severely affect a person’s cosmetic appearance. While the cause of melasma is not certain, too much sun, changes in hormones, and certain cosmetic products will irritate the condition. Women, individuals with darker skin tones and those with affected family members, are most at risk for developing melasma. It may also develop in persons taking:

• Oral contraceptives
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Excessive sun exposure

While there is no real prevention for melasma other than proper skin care, such as wearing sunscreen and practicing other forms of safe skincare, there are treatments available. Melasma may not always need treatment as some spots will go away in time or with the change of hormones. However, if necessary, a doctor can prescribe certain topical creams and medications. If this does not work, a dermatological procedure, such as a chemical peel or dermabrasion, may be performed. Some laser treatments can also reduce the effects of melasma.

Source: American Academy of Dermatology

Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral infection of the skin which causes small skin growths in susceptible patients who come in contact with the virus. The disease is generally mild and should not be a reason for concern or worry.

This skin disease can cause the bumps to spread to different parts of the body. This is called autoinoculation. Such spread can occur by touching or scratching a bump and then touching another part of the body. The virus can also be spread from person to person. This can happen if the growths on one person are touched by another person. It can also happen if the virus gets on an object that is touched by other people, such as sharing towels, clothing, and toys.

The lesions caused by a molluscum infection usually clear up on their own within 6-24 months without any treatment. However, treatment of the lesions can speed their resolution and reduces the chance of the lesions further spreading as well as transmission to others. Some methods of removal may include: chemical agents to destruct the lesions, or cryotherapy.

Often called "ringworm of the nail," a fungal infection of the nails can occur when fungus directly attacks the nails, or when it spreads from an athlete's foot or other fungal infection of the foot. The typical symptom of this condition is a whitish thickening of the nail and nail bed. In advanced cases, the nail can be destroyed. Dr. Terracina provides individualized treatment for nail problems that eliminates the infection and returns the nails to a healthy appearance.

Discolored skin patches are irregular areas where there are changes in skin color. Discoloration is a common problem with a wide array of potential causes, including sunlight, hormonal changes, infections, autoimmune conditions, burns/injury, birthmarks, difference in melanin levels, and skin cancers. Some causes are harmless, but others will require medical attention.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that results in itchy, red, raised skin with white scaly patches. Approximately 3 to 5 percent of the people throughout the world suffer from psoriasis, and, among this group, 25 percent are at risk for psoriatic arthritis. The itching and pain of this troubling skin condition can be debilitating, and individuals with psoriasis may socially isolate themselves because of embarrassment about their appearance. As a result, those afflicted with psoriasis often suffer from depression and low self-esteem.

At The Skin Institute, we take a great deal of pride in our effective psoriasis treatments. Dr. Terracina is a board-certified dermatologist who has extensive training in the treatment of psoriasis.

If you have psoriasis, there is no reason for you to suffer in silence. Dr. Terracina will carefully evaluate your condition and design a custom psoriasis treatment program that is just right for you. Most of our patients are clear within 30 days of their first visit.

The term rash is used to describe a number of skin conditions that typically result in red, irritated skin with scales or itchy bumps. Rashes are rarely dangerous. However, self-diagnosis and treatment of a rash are not recommended because they are often ineffective. Self-treatment may actually cause the rash to worsen. Proper diagnosis and treatment of a rash can only be accomplished by a trained professional.

Dr. Joseph Terracina is a board-certified dermatologist who has diagnosed and treated the many types of rashes. He will carefully diagnose your condition and provide the precise treatment necessary to provide you with exceptional results.

Rosacea is the redness that appears on the face and sometimes the neck, chest, or ears on some individuals, usually after the age of 30. In addition to skin redness, other symptoms include bumps and pus-filled pimples, eye irritation, a burning or stinging sensation on the face, and swelling.

More than 14 million Americans are reported to suffer from rosacea. According to the National Rosacea Society, 70 percent of patients with the affliction said it had lowered their confidence and self-esteem. While there is no cure for rosacea, Dr. Terracina can prescribe topical medications and perform laser surgery to provide effective relief from the condition. Our skilled dermatologist carefully evaluates and designs a custom treatment program for each patient.

To learn more about Dr. Terracina's highly effective treatments and procedures, contact The Skin Institute to speak with a highly trained staff member or schedule a consultation with Dr. Terracina.

Scabies is an itchy skin infection caused by a tiny skin mite that bores itself into the upper layer of the skin causing an infection. Skin-to-skin contact with someone who has scabies poses a risk for infection. This contact must be prolonged, a hug or handshake will not spread them. Scabies is found worldwide and can spread rapidly in situations where close body and skin contact happens frequently.

It is commonly seen in children and their mothers as well as teenagers who are sexually active. Those who live in nursing and other care homes are likely candidates for scabies. Nursing homes, extended care facilities, prisons, and even child care facilities are institutions that most commonly have scabies outbreaks. Anyone who has a weakened immune system is susceptible to easily contracting it.

To prevent scabies avoid close physical contact with someone who has a scabies infection, as well as sharing clothing or bedding. Clothing or bedding touched by an infected person should be machine washed in hot water and dried. Items that cannot be washed can be stored in a closed plastic bag for several days to a week. Scabies do not usually survive more than 2-3 days without contact with human skin.

Scars are the body’s way to repair skin that has been damaged. They are usually flesh-colored, but can darken with sun exposure. Anyone who has a skin injury is at risk for developing a scar, but the likelihood of a scar forming is based on the severity of the skin injury as well as age and overall health of the body and the skin. A scar can also form if a skin wound is not properly cared for.

There are multiple ways to treat a scar including dermabrasion, chemical peels, collagen and cortisone injections, and laser treatment. The type of procedure will depend on the size and placement of the scar, as well as the overall health of the patient.

Shingles is a rash on the skin that affects the nervous system and can irritate and cause pain. The varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox, also causes shingles. People over the age of 50 are at higher risk for contracting shingles. Those enduring certain procedures or stressful situations with a weakened immune system are more susceptible to contracting shingles. Having had chickenpox also puts a person at risk for contracting shingles. Some symptoms include:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Fever
• Painful, burning, itching sensations
• A ring of the rash that will most likely form around the waist
• Rash with a series of blisters filled with fluid, before scabbing

Antiviral drugs are prescribed to speed recovery from shingles. Although shingles itself cannot be prevented, the chickenpox vaccine prevents chickenpox and therefore decreases the likelihood that a vaccinated individual will later develop shingles.

Source: National Shingles Foundation
Source: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Contact dermatitis is a condition of the skin that causes the skin to become inflamed when it comes in contact with certain allergens. Contact dermatitis is caused by having once come into contact with a certain substance that caused the body to weaken the body’s defensive systems toward that substance.

A patch test can help determine which allergens are causing a patient's allergic contact dermatitis. A patch test is performed by taping possible irritants to the upper back, waiting several days, and returning to the doctor to see the results. Also, another examination will be performed several days later to see if any reaction was delayed. After patch testing has been concluded and a result has been received, the doctor will be able to pinpoint the source of the contact dermatitis. This should help the patient know how to avoid it to prevent further inflammation of the skin.

The only way to prevent further contact dermatitis is to avoid the substance that irritates the skin.

Skin tags are a small growth that projects from the skin with a bump-like appearance or on a stalk so that hangs from the surrounding skin. Skin tags can have a smooth or irregular shape and can be flesh colored or pigmented. They occur almost anywhere on the body, but often manifest on the neck, eyelids, armpits, upper chest, and groin.

Skin tags typically begin to appear in middle age, and they are more prevalent on women than men. There is usually no health risk associated with skin tags. Dr. Terracina will carefully evaluate your case and provide the treatment that will give you the best possible results.

Spider veins are enlarged capillaries that are usually web-like, red or purple lines on the skin. The cause of spider veins is uncertain, but they are believed to be hereditary or due to hormones. Older adults, especially women, are more likely to have spider veins. Localized trauma or injury has also been known to cause spider veins.

Compression hose are commonly used to prevent spider veins and decrease extension of existing spider veins. However, intervention is needed to eliminate spider veins that have already developed. Sclerotherapy is a technique in which a saline solution is injected into the vein, causing it to cave in. This normally takes several treatments and compression stockings are worn afterwards to prevent re-opening of the vessels.

Over time, sunlight causes changes to the skin. Overexposure leads to thinning, discolorations, bruising, wrinkling, and chronic damage. This condition is not only medically significant due to the increased risk of skin cancer, but is also a cosmetic concern.

A sunburn is a burn on the skin caused by being unprotected in the sun’s rays for too long. A sunburn can be very serious, as it can lead to melanoma later in life.

A sunburn is caused by the body’s overproduction of melanin in the skin after being in the sun for too long or with no protection. Everyone who spends time in the sun is at risk for having a sunburn, but those with fair skin are more likely to burn. Those with darker skin may tan instead of burn. While there may be no pain or peeling along with the tan, the sun is still damaging the skin, and the skin can still develop melanoma. Some medications may also put a person more at risk for developing a sunburn.

There are several treatments available to control the pain caused by sunburn. Pain relievers, aloe and other cooling gels, as well as cool compresses are all used to treat sunburn. However, there is no way to treat the damage done to the skin, only the pain caused by the sunburn.

The only way to prevent sunburn is to protect the skin. Avoid being in the sun during the parts of the day where the sun is at its hottest. Apply sunscreen to all parts of the skin that will be exposed. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours at the least.

The fungus causing tinea is a microscopic organism that grows in the outer skin and prefers moisture. When this fungus infects the feet, it is athlete's foot (tinea pedis). The groin rash is jock itch (tinea cruris). The body rash is ringworm (tinea corporis).

We may prescribe creams, ointments, lotions, sprays, powders, or shampoos as another front of attack on your fungus infection. There are a few general guidelines, however, that will work to speed the cure or control of your fungal infection.

Tinea often comes back. Warmth and moisture encourage the fungus to grow. You can help prevent recurrences by drying thoroughly after bathing, wearing loose cotton underwear, and dusting with an absorbent powder such as Zeasorb-AF on the skin once or twice a day. After swimming, put on dry clothes right away; don't stay in a wet swimsuit. You may wish to dry the skin area with a hair dryer set on an air only or low setting. If you have athlete's foot, wear ventilated shoes, especially in warm weather. Go barefoot or wear sandals as much as possible. Wear clean, absorbent cotton socks and change them frequently. Bathe daily and dry thoroughly and carefully, especially between your toes, with a dry, clean towel. Powders may help to keep the area dry.

Vitiligo is a non-life-threatening skin condition which causes patches of skin to lose color. It can also cause loss of pigmentation of the hair, mouth, and the eyes. Vitiligo occurs when the cells that produce melanin (pigment) die.

The cause of vitiligo is unknown, but it has been linked to autoimmune diseases. Family history can also be a factor along with a trigger event such as sun exposure, stress, or exposure to industrial chemicals. Vitiligo can happen at any age but is most common before the age of 20. People with vitiligo may be at increased risk of social or psychological distress, sunburn and skin cancer, eye problems, such as inflammation of the iris (iritis), hearing loss, and side effects due to treatment, such as dry skin and itching.

There are several treatments for vitiligo, although no treatment is necessary. Makeup and self-tanning products are options for cosmetic treatment. Medicine and topical creams help decrease any associated inflammation that can exacerbate vitiligo. Light and laser therapy, and complete depigmentation are sometimes used as treatment for vitiligo.

Though a wart looks as though it is just a raised bump of hard skin, it is actually the result of a viral infection of the top layer of skin. The wart virus can be passed from person to person through direct skin-to-skin contact or by touching a surface that carries the virus, such as a shower-room floor.

It may come as a surprise that the most effective treatment of warts is to irritate the wart so that the body recognizes it as an infection and attacks it with the immune system. Every patient is unique, so when you come to The Skin Institute for wart removal, Dr. Terracina will provide the treatment that is most appropriate for you.

To learn more about all of our highly effective procedures, including skin cancer treatment, mole removal, and acne treatment, contact The Skin Institute to speak with a member of our professional staff or to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Terracina.

Actinic keratosis, also called solar keratosis, is a type of cancer where scaly, crusty growths (lesions) are caused by damage from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. It is a potential pre-cancerous lesion. It typically appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face, bald scalp, lips, and the back of the hands. The growths often:

• Appear elevated
• Are rough in texture
• Resemble warts
• Become red, tan, pink, or flesh-toned

If left untreated, up to ten percent of AKs develop into squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), which is the second-most common form of skin cancer. In rarer instances, AKs may also turn into basal cell carcinomas (BCC), the most common form of skin cancer.

A dermatologist will select a treatment type such as immunotherapy, cryosurgery, chemotherapy ap plied to the skin, chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, radiation therapy, or surgical treatment. A person can prevent skin cancer by regularly applying sunscreen and avoiding sun exposure when possible.

Source: American Academy of Dermatology
Source: Skin Cancer Foundation

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It can appear anywhere on the body, but most often appears on skin that is often exposed to the sun, such as the face, scalp, neck, hands, and arms. Basal cell carcinoma typically grows slowly. It may look like a:

• Reddish patch of dry skin that does not heal
• Flesh-colored, pink, red, or brown pearl-shaped lump
• Pimple that does not clear
• Sore that bleeds, heals, and then returns
• Scar that feels waxy and is skin-colored, white, or yellow
• Group of slow-growing, shiny pink or red-growths that look like sores (often scaly and bleed easily)
• Flat or sunken growth that feels hard and may be white or yellow

A dermatologist will carefully examine growths, moles, and dry patches. After careful consideration, treatment plans such as immunotherapy, cryosurgery, chemotherapy applied to the skin, chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, radiation therapy, or surgical treatments can be pursued. A person can prevent skin cancer by regularly applying sunscreen and avoiding sun exposure when possible.

A dermatologist will select a treatment type such as immunotherapy, cryosurgery, chemotherapy ap plied to the skin, chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, radiation therapy, or surgical treatment. A person can prevent skin cancer by regularly applying sunscreen and avoiding sun exposure when possible.

Source: American Academy of Dermatology
Source: Skin Cancer Foundation

Squamous cell carcinoma is a very common type of skin cancer. It often appears on skin that gets lots of sun, such as the face, ears, bald scalp, neck, or arms, but it can appear elsewhere – even inside the mouth, on the lips, or genitals. Too much sun is often the cause, but it is not the only one. Squamous cell carcinoma can appear on skin that was badly burned, had lots of radiation, such as x-rays, or was exposed to strong chemicals. Squamous cell carcinoma often has a reddish color and can grow deeply if left untreated. The cancer can spread to other parts of the body and it can be deadly. It often looks like a:

• Hard (scaly or crusty) reddish bump, patch, or pearl-shaped growth
• Open sore that itches and bleeds; it can heal and return
• Scaly patch on the lip; the skin on the lip can get thick

If the dermatologist finds something that looks like skin cancer, the dermatologist will remove it (or part of it). The removed skin will be sent to a lab and diagnosed. There are many effective treatments for skin cancer, such as immunotherapy, cryosurgery, chemotherapy applied to the skin, chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, radiation therapy, or surgical treatments can be pursued. A person can prevent skin cancer by regularly applying sunscreen and avoiding sun exposure when possible.

Source: American Academy of Dermatology
Source: Skin Cancer Foundation

Melanoma often appears in an existing mole or looks like a new mole. By knowing where you have moles on your skin, you can find melanoma when it first appears. Here is what to look for:

• A mole on the skin that is growing, changing shape, or changing color
• A mole that looks scaly, oozes, or bleeds
• New dark spot on the skin that looks like a mole, but grows quickly
• Pain, itch, or bleeding in a new spot on the skin
• Streak (usually brown or black) underneath a fingernail or toenail
• Bruise on the foot that does not heal

Your treatment depends on how deeply the melanoma has grown into your skin, whether the melanoma has spread to other parts of the body, and your overall health. Treatment often starts with surgery, and while the melanoma is in stage 0—growing in the outer layer of skin—the cure rate is nearly 100%. Treatment may also involve immunotherapy, radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for all skin cancers. Regularly apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid sun exposure when possible.

Source: American Academy of Dermatology
Source: Skin Cancer Foundation