Acne

Acne is a disease involving the oil glands of the skin and affects over 80% of adolescents and many adults. During puberty, our bodies produce large amounts of an oily substance called sebum. Sebum, when combined with excess skin debris, sticks together in our pores, causing the pore to become clogged. Without effective treatment, these clogged pores can become red, infected, swollen, and form unsightly pimples that can lead to scarring and skin color changes. It can occur on the face, chest, and back. There are many effective treatments for acne in children, teens, and adults. These include creams, gels, pills, lasers, light therapy, chemical peels, and hormonal therapy. Modification of diet and changes of cosmetic products and skin care habits are also often necessary.

Birth Marks

Birthmarks are pigmented spots or patches of skin that range in color from tan, brown and black to red, pink or purple. Some birthmarks appear shortly after birth, and others appear in childhood. Though most birthmarks are harmless, there are some that can be abnormal and it is important to have your childs skin examined to make sure all birthmarks are benign. Another advantage to having a skin check is that there can be an ongoing record of any change that may develop.

Eczema/Atopic Dermatitis

Eczema is a long lasting disease usually noticed in children during the first year of life. Dry and scaly red itchy patches can be seen on the skin and are common on cheeks, elbows and knees. Severe itching and scratching of eczema can lead to skin infections and scarring. Eczema is associated with seasonal allergies and asthma and in a minority of children is also associated with food allergies. Contact allergic reactions to jewelry, metals and some creams or ointments are also not too uncommon in children with eczema. There are many safe and effective treatments for eczema including special moisturizers, prescription medications and phototherapy. Currently there is no cure for eczema, fortunately however, most children outgrow eczema by early their teens.

Hair Loss

Hair loss can affect just the scalp or entire body. It can be the result of heredity, certain medications or an underlying medical condition. Anyone including men, women and children, can experience hair loss. Treatments can vary depending on the cause of hair loss. Early treatments are often beneficial and may result in hair growth depending on the underlying cause. Children experiencing hair loss most often are found to be suffering from a fungus infection of the scalp or an immune condition called Alopecia Aerata.

Impetigo

Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection usually found in children and infants. It is characterized as single or multiple pus filled blisters or sores that pop easily and leave a reddish, raw-looking base and/or honey-colored crust. Impetigo can spread through scratching to other parts of the body. Treatment is often curative.

Moles

Moles are small, pigmented spots on the skin. They are composed of clusters of pigmented cells called melanocytes. Moles can vary in size, shape and color. They can be flesh-colored, pink-brown, or black. They can be texturally flat or smooth, hairy or warty. Although moles are usually harmless, in some cases they can become cancerous, causing a potentially deadly tumor called malignant melanoma. Everyone should have regular skin exams to screen for atypical moles.

Warts

Warts are non-cancerous skin growths caused by a viral infection in the top layer of the skin. Viruses that cause warts are called human papillomavirus (HPV). Some of our techniques for treating warts include cryotherapy, blistering agents, chemical destruction, candida antigen injections, and laser therapy. Medications and non-painful techniques can also be used.