December 2009

On this Twelfth Day of Dermatology, we here at Skinsight would like to wish everyone happy and safe holidays. In the spirit of the season, we would like to recognize some of the humanitarian efforts that many dermatologists participate in throughout the year.

Instead of 11 pipers piping or 5 golden rings, look at what Skinsight brings. Whether or not you think you need cosmetic surgery, make sure you make an informed decision.

Santa Claus has a full beard that young children like to tug upon to prove he is real. What if Mrs. Claus had a full beard as well? Excessive hair affects 15% of women in the US.

Q: How can I get rid of the skin rash and itch of hives?

Hives is a prime example of a skin condition that responds extremely well to oral antihistamine treatment. A drug such as Benadryl®, Claritin®, or Zyrtec® can be very effective in relieving the rash and itch from hives. These drugs can also be obtained without a prescription.

Hives can sometimes form around the mouth and can be associated with breathing problems. In more serious cases, a visit to the emergency room and sometimes adrenalin shots are necessary.

Finding presents for all your loved ones can be very stressful this time of year. The stores can get so crowded that you may just want to pull your hair out. Hair loss, however, is no joking matter.

Q: Where should I go to have laser procedures performed?

A: Patients who want to look younger have a confusing array of options, including where to go for cosmetic procedures. I talk about this topic at greater length here, but, essentially, this is what I recommend evaluating prior to undergoing a cosmetic laser procedure.

Everyone would rather have the white stuff on the ground than whiteheads on the face, especially during this time of year. Whether you’re naughty or nice, acne is one gift everyone would send back if they could.

For the Seventh Day of Dermatology, Skinsight has decided to give you interesting information about the skin infection called methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, commonly abbreviated and referred to as MRSA.