Acne
Acne is a most skin condition seen in dermatology practices. Most people develop acne during adolescence. Acne usually becomes less of a problem after the age of 25 years, although about 12% of women and 6% of men continue to have acne as adults.
Treatment for acne varies depending on the type and severity, the induvidual's skin type, age, and life style.
The treatment options include: Topical and systemic antibiotics (such as Benzoylperoxide), Retinoids (such as Retin-A, Differin, Tazorac), or combination of Retinoids with other antibiotics (such as Epidua and Ziana). Isotretinoin is indicated for severe cystic acne. Oral contraceptives and Spironolactone can be effective for some types of acne in female patients. Chemical Peels, Microdermabrasion, and Laser and other light treatment can be beneficial for treating both acne and acne scars.
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Aging Skin
Aging Skin is caused by the genes we inherit (intrinsic) and environmental factors (extrinsic), such as exposure to the sun’s rays. Intrinsic aging begins in our mid-20s, within the skin, collagen production slows and the amount of elastin decreases, that leads to thinning and sagging skin and wrinkles. Extrinsic factors, specially the sun exposure, also called photoaging, can facilitate skin aging process. Other external factors include facial expressions, gravity, sleep positions, stress, and smoking.
A number of treatments are available for aging skin, including Botox, Restylane, Radiesse, Chemical Peels, Microdermabrasion, Laser resurfacing, as well as topical skin rejuvenating products.
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Dermatitis
Dermatitis is inflammation of the skin that results from a variety of different causes and has various types, such as eczema, irritant or and allergic contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, nummular eczema, etc.
The most important aspect of treatment is to identify and tackle the causes. Regular skin moisturizing for preserving and improving intact and functional skin barrier system is vitally beneficial; topical corticosteroids or non-steroidal agents are often helpful for mild to moderate dermatitis; systemic corticosteroids, immune suppressants, and phototherapy may be needed for severe dermatitis.
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Melasma
Melasma is due to overproduction of pigment called melanin by the pigment cells within the skin. It appears blotchy, brownish patches on the face. The common triggers include pregnancy, contraceptives, heat, and genetic predisposition.
Treatment for Melasma can be challenging and slow sometimes. The treatment options include Hydroquinone, Azelaic Acid, Chemical Peels, or Laser treatment. Sun protection is critically important for good outcome and for prevention of recurrence.
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Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a common, chronic, itching rash that affects about 3% people of all ages. Although there is a genetic predisposition, it is not a genetic disease. It is considered as skin autoimmune condition with excessive production of cytokines such as interleukin and TNF, leading to overgrowth and dilation of blood vessels (skin redness) and increased turnover of the skin cells (scaly and thickened skin).
So far there is no cure for psoriasis except for Guttate type (usually caused by bacterial infection) or drug induced type. The wide range of treatments are available, including topical steroids or non-steroidal agents (such as Calcipotriol and Tacrolimus). Narrow-band UVB can be effective for generalized psoriasis. Biologics such as Humira, Stelara, and Remicade can be quite effective for moderate to severe psoriasis.
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Rosacea
Rosacea is a facial skin inflammation that most often affects those aged 30 to 60, especially those with fair skin, blue eyes and of Celtic origin. It may be transient, recurrent or persistent. The cause of rosacea is unknown, genetic, environmental, vascular hypersensitivity to external factors (such heat and cold), and Demodex folliculorum may be involved in the pathogenesis of Rosacea.
Treatments include topcial agents such as Metronidazole and Azelaic Acid, and oral antibiotics such as Doxycycline. Isotretinoin may be used for severe rosacea. Vascular Laser or IPL can be effective for treating persistent telangiectasia.
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Skin Cancer
Most of the skin cancers occur as a result of chronic and intense sun exposure. Skin cancer generally develops in the top layers of skin, and is usually easily visible. This makes most skin cancers detectable in the early stages. Three types of skin cancer account for nearly 100% of all diagnosed cases, the most common type, Basal Cell Carcinoma (about 80%) is typically locally destructive, Melanoma (about 4%) however is a most lethal type with potential of early metastasis, Squamous Cell Carcinoma (about 16%) is often locally aggressive with some metastatic potential specially on the head and neck areas.
Treatment for skin cancer varies according to the type, location, extent, aggressiveness of the cancer, and the patient's general health. The surgical excision is still most effective, alternatively, Cryosurgery, Electrosurgery, or sometimes topical chemotherapeutic agents can be used.
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Warts
Warts are growths of the skin caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Depending on the location involved, there are common warts or genital warts. The warts are contagious and can be spread by direct contact or autoinocculation.
Treatments for warts include freezing with Liquid Nitrogen, Electrosurgery, and topical agents such as Imiquimod, Effudex, Veregen, and Squaric Acid. Intralesional injection of Bleomycin and Candida can be effective for some recalcitrant warts. Laser treatment has also been used for treating warts with varying success.
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