Skinmatters Blog (All Posts)

Are you bothered by small bumps along your upper arms or thighs? These bumps are most likely a skin condition called keratosis pilaris. Just like acne, rosacea, and melasma, keratosis pilaris is a medically benign (harmless) condition, but it can still leave you feeling self-conscious of your appearance. This post will tell you a little more about keratosis pilaris, who is most susceptible, and what you can do about it.

Pimples, a constantly flushed complexion, prominent blood vessels, and a bulbous nose – if you’re familiar with any combination of these symptoms, chances are good that you may have rosacea. You wouldn’t be alone. Approximately 14 million people in the US and millions more worldwide have this persistent and trying skin condition. Often referred to as “adult acne,” rosacea is actually a chronic inflammation of the face. Its cause is unknown, and there is no permanent cure.

A recent study published in the April issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings reports that between the years 1979 and 2009, the incidence of melanoma increased eightfold among young women and fourfold among young men ages 18 to 39.

“There is currently a melanoma epidemic in the U.S., particularly in young women and middle-aged men. This has been documented by various large population-based studies, with our study confirming that trend in young women,” said Mayo Clinic dermatologist Dr. Jerry Brewer.

Of all the common skin conditions caused by pregnancy, pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy, or PUPPP, is probably the one that women find the most frustrating. Similar to linea nigra and striae (stretch marks), PUPPP is benign and harmless to the mother and unborn child. However, this fact doesn't lessen the discomfort and often annoying effects on the skin caused by PUPPP.

When you become pregnant, body changes are guaranteed. Your physique, moods, and energy levels will alter as your baby develops. Pregnant women also may encounter changes on their skin. A dark line extending vertically down the abdomen (linea nigra) is one example. Another common example is striae, also known as stretch marks.

CNN reported that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has released a warning to consumers that skin creams, beauty and antiseptic soaps and lotions contaminated with mercury have been found in at least 7 states.  The products are made aborad and sold within the United States as skin lighteners and anti-aging creams.  Products are being promoted as being able to remove age spots, freckles, wrinkles, other skin blemishes and even acne medication for teens.

A balanced diet is crucial for overall health. But do certain foods also have specific benefits for managing psoriasis? Many people with the disease believe so. However, research has yielded mixed results. Here’s what’s known about diet and psoriasis—and what’s not.

During the 9 months of pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through extraordinary changes. If this is your first pregnancy, you might be astonished by the number of small surprises that you discover during your term as a result of pregnancy’s effect on the skin. One of these may be a thin, darkish line that runs from the naval (belly button) to the pubic area. This line can also extend from the pubic area through the naval to the top of the belly. No need to worry, though! This is linea nigra, a common – and harmless – skin condition of pregnancy.

What Causes Cellulitis?
Similar to impetigo, another common skin infection, cellulitis is often caused by Streptococcus (“strep”) or Staphylococcus (“staph”) bacteria. These bacteria usually live on the skin of healthy people but can enter the body through a break in the skin. Where impetigo is a superficial skin infection, cellulitis occurs when the bacteria get into the deeper tissue under the skin and overgrow. Unlike impetigo, cellulitis is not contagious.

Morgellons is a highly controversial condition within the medical community.  Many experts agree that the condition is likely related to some form of mental disease.  In July we posted the article Morgellons Disease: A Disease of the Skin or the Mind?.  Today, we revisit this topic by sharing with you this recent post from Dr. Dominic Carone.