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Dermatology: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Acne Blackheads & Whiteheads
Blackheads and whiteheads are a specific type of acne called comedones. Find out more about what caused open and closed comedones and how to treat them here.
First Genital Herpes Outbreak
The first outbreak of genital herpes is worse than recurrent genital herpes virus infections. Find out more about how the herpes simplex virus causes the first genital herpes outbreak.
Herpes Symptoms in Women
Even though the herpes simplex virus can infect men and women, the pattern of infection is different in women. Learn more about the symptoms women can get with genital herpes.
Herpes - Herpes Pictures and Cold Sores Pictures
The herpes virus causes a typical rash in the genital area and also causes fever blisters (cold sores). This gallery shows pictures of typical herpes rashes.
Jock Itch
Jock itch is a common fungal infection that affects more men than women. Find out more about jock itch and what can be done to treat it.
The Dermatology Gallery
The Dermatology Gallery
Seborrheic Keratosis
Seborrheic Keratoses, sometimes called barnacles, can be dangerous-looking but they are actually benign. This article describes what they look like and some common ways to remove them.
How to Use Retin-A
Tretinoin, or Retin-A, is a very effective medication used to treat blackheads, whiteheads, and wrinkles. This article gives guidelines that may help reduce side effects and increase compliance with this medication.
Warts
Warts are actually benign tumors of the epidermis caused by a virus. Find what you need to know about this annoying skin condition.
Cold Sores Treatments
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters or herpes labialis, are recurrent infections caused by the herpes simplex virus. Find out more about who gets cold sores and what can be done about them.
Itchy Rashes
Rashes are common - some itch, and some don't. Learn more about common itchy rashes and see if you can determine which one you might have.
Ringworm
Ringworm, also known as tinea corporis, is a superficial fungal infection of the skin. Find out more about what the ringworm rash looks like, how ringworm is diagnosed, and how ringworm is treated.
Tinea Versicolor
Tinea versicolor is a fungal infection caused by a yeast that normally inhabits the skin. Find out more about why this yeast causes a rash in some people and what this rash looks like.
Head Lice
Head lice are parasitic insects found most commonly behind the ears and near the neckline at the back of the neck. Learn more about what head lice and the nits (eggs) look like, how head lice is spread, and how head lice is treated.
Chicken Pox - Chicken Pox Pictures
The chicken pox rash is very distinctive, but is sometimes confused with herpes or shingles. This gallery shows pictures of typical herpes rashes compared to the chicken pox rash.
PUPPP
Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP), also known as polymorphic eruption of pregnancy, is the most common rash in pregnant women. Find out more about this condition that affects many pregnant women.
Chickenpox
Chicken pox is a common, usually self-limited, infection caused by the varicella virus. Learn more about the varicella virus, what the chicken pox rash looks like, and how chicken pox is diagnosed.
Hair Removal Methods
A discussion of the various methods of hair removal.
Scabies - Rash on Leg
Scabies is an itchy skin rash caused by a mite under the skin.
Hives
Hives, also known as urticaria, is a common allergic skin condition. Find out more about what causes hives and the treatment of hives.
Antibiotics Used to Treat Acne
Antibiotics are frequently used to treat acne. This article gives a profile of some of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics for acne.
Acne Scars
Acne scars can affect anyone. After acne heals, the skin can be left with a discoloration that may take months to heal. Find out more about what can be done to treat these Acne Scars Information - Treatment of Acne Scarsearly acne scars.
Skin Anatomy
The skin is a complicated structure, made up of several layers. Find out more about skin anatomy here.
What Causes Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder that affects 1% to 3% of the world's population. Find out more about what causes psoriasis.
Fever Blisters
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters or herpes labialis, are recurrent infections caused by the herpes simplex virus. Find out more about who gets fever blisters and what can be done about them.
I Have a Rash
What do you do when you have a skin rash and don't know what it is? This article gives skin rash rules to follow.
Picture Aphthous Ulcers in the Mouth
Aphthous ulcers look like cold sores caused by herpes but they are not.
Chicken Pox Pictures - Pictures of Chicken Pox, Varicella Virus Infections
Chicken pox is a common infection caused by the varicella virus. This gallery shows pictures of chicken pox lesions in various stages and on different types of skin.
Tinea Versicolor Treatment
Tinea versicolor is a fungal infection caused by a yeast that normally inhabits the skin. Find out more about the most effective treatment options.
What Causes Acne
Acne is caused by the effects of hormones on sebaceous glands. Find out more how acne, blackheads, and whiteheads are formed.
Rashes With Blisters
Do you have a rash with blisters? Do you know what it is? Read more here about common rashes that cause blisters.
Chicken Pox Treatments
Chicken pox is a common, usually self-limited, infection caused by the varicella virus. Learn more about the presricption and over-the-counter treatments that are available.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia Areata is an unpredictable, non-scarring, patchy hair loss condition that usually resolves on its own. Find out more about what causes this condition and what can be done about it.
Impetigo
Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection. Learn more about what causes impetigo and how it is treated.
Causes of Hives
In most cases of hives, the cause of hives cannot be determined. However, there are some substances that when ingested or inhaled are more likely to cause hives.
bcc
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. Find out more about what basal cell carcinoma looks like and who is at risk for getting this skin cancer.
Follic_Furunc_Carbuncle
Bacterial skin infections are common and some are self-limited. This article describes the difference between several types of bacterial skin infections and how they are treated.
The ABCD's of Melanoma
Step by step pictures of normal moles and melanoma.
Hot Tub Folliculitis
Hot tub folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles caused by contact with contaminated water in hot tubs or whirlpools. Find out more about what this rash looks like and how it is treated.
Acne Quiz
Test your knowledge of acne and acne treamtents.
Scabies - Rash on Fingers
Scabies is an itchy skin rash caused by a mite under the skin.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as seborrhea or dandruff, causes flaking on the face and scalp. Find out more about seborrhea and seborrhea treatments.
What is Dermatitis?
Dermatitis is often thought of as synonymous with eczema, but this is not exactly true. Dermatitis is actually a term used to describe a specific type of rash with many causes. Find out more about the types of dermatitis rashes.
Intertrigo
Intertrigo is a yeast infection that occurs in skin folds. Find out more about what this yeast infection looks like and how it is treated.
How HSV Works
The herpes simplex virus is a DNA virus that causes genital herpes and oral herpes. Find out more about how the herpes simplex virus causes infection and why people have recurrences.
Psoriasis Information - Psoriasis Pictures
See pictures of various types of psoriasis.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a very common fungal infection experienced by up to 70% of the population at some time in their life. Learn more about the types of athlete's foot and how they are treated.
How Acne Forms
This illustration shows how a blackhead, or open comedone, forms.
Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that can be confused with warts. Find out more about this self-limited rash that generally affects children.
Review of Mederma for Scars
A review of Mederma as a treatment for scars.
Pruritis
The definition of pruritis
Erysipelas
Erysipelas, also known as St. Anthony's Fire, is an intensely red bacterial infection that occurs on the face and lower extremities. Find out more about this skin disease and its treatment.
Nail Anatomy
Fingernails and toenails are made of more than just the nail we see. Find out more about the anatomy of nails and how nails grow.
Effects of Sun on the Skin
UV radiation from sun exposure causes changes in many vital skin structures. Find out more about the visible skin changes that are caused by exposure to UV radiation.
Genital Herpes Treatments
Genital herpes infections can be treated with medications that reduce the symptoms of genital herpes and reduce the occurance of genital herpes. Find out more about the medications used to treat genital herpes.
Vesicle
The definition of vesicle.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Alpha hydroxy acids, the most common of which are glycolic acid and lactic acid, have been used for centuries for skin rejuvenation. Studies are showing that appropriate formulations of alpha hydroxy acids may reverse some of the effects of sun on the skin. Find out more about alpha hydroxy acids.
What Causes Wrinkles
Wrinkles are caused by many factors as we age. Find out more about the major causes of wrinkles.
Poison Ivy
The rash caused by poison ivy and it's relatives causes itchy red blisters. What is Rhus dermatitis and how can it be prevented and treated?
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common skin cancer. Find out more about what squamous cell carcinoma looks like and what can be done about this skin cancer.
Scabies - Rash on Body
Scabies is an itchy skin rash caused by a mite under the skin.
Skin Diseases
Learn more about common and uncommon skin conditions.
Herpes and Pregnancy
Under certain circumstances a pregnant woman can transmit the herpes simplex virus to her baby causing potentially deadly consequences. Find out more about genital herpes infections in pregnancy.
What is SPF?
What do the letters SPF stand for? Find out more about this common acronym - what it means and how it is measured.
Accutane
Isotretinoin, trade name Accutane, is a medication that has revolutionized the treatment of acne. Find out more about how it works, who takes it, and some common side effects of this medicine.
Moles
Moles are common benign tumors that occur anywhere on the body. Learn more about moles and how to tell them apart from melanoma and other skin cancers.
Fungal Nail Infections
A fungal infection of the nails causes thickened, discolored nails that can be painful. Find out what fungal nail infections look like and how they are diagnosed.
Do I Need a Dermatologist
Do you need a dermatologist or should you see your regular provider? This article helps clarify the types of providers who take care of skin diseases.
Comedone
The definition of comedone
Psoriasis Triggers
Learn more about the environmental factors that trigger psoriasis.
Causes of Dark Spots
Dark spots, or hyperpigmentation, can be caused by many factors. Some of these factors are preventable. Learn more about the conditions and chemicals that can cause dark spots.
Beta Hydroxy Acid
Beta hydroxy acid, salicylic acid, is a topical exfoliant that appears to reverse some of the effects of photoaging such as fine wrinkles and discolored skin. Find out more about beta hydroxy acid which penetrates into the pore and is less irritating than alpha hydroxy acid.
Dermatology Gallery
Picture of a head louse nit, or egg, attached to a hair shaft.
Hair Biology
Hair is more complicated than it appears. Find out more about the structure of hair and how it works.
Paronychia
Paronychia is an infection of the skin around the nails that is common in people who bite their nails or children who suck their fingers. Find out more about paronychia.
Melanoma
Melanoma is a skin cancer in pigment-producing cells in the skin. Find out more about this potentially malignant skin cancer.
Atopic Dermatitis 101
Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema. This is the starting point to learn more about atopic dermatitis.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic, progressive skin condition that affects the sweat glands. Find out more about what causes hidradenitis suppurativa and what can be done to treat it.
Pityriasis Alba
Pityriasis alba is a chronic skin disorder that affects some children. Find out more about this light colored rash on the face.
Topical Steroid Side Effects
While topical steroids have tremendous benefit in reducing inflammation, they also have significant side effects. Learn more about the side effects of topical steroids.
Acne Treatment Antibiotics
Topical antibiotics are a common and effective type of acne treatment. Find out more about acne treatment with topical antibiotics.
Pityriasis Rosea
Pityriasis rosea is a common, self-limited rash that can be very itchy. Find out more about the appearance and treatment of pityriasis rosea.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Allergic contact dermatitis is a delayed hypersensitivity reaction that occurs after contact with an allergen. Find out more about how contact dermatitis develops and how it is treated.
Topical Steroid Strengths
Topical steroids are divided into groups based on their strengths. Find out more about the strengths of various topical steroids.
Chicken Pox Complications
Chicken pox is a common, usually self-limited, infection caused by the varicella virus. However, approximately 14,000 people are hospitalized in the US each year because of complications. Learn more about the potentially life-threatening complications of chicken pox.
Dermatitis Treatment
Learn more about how atopic dermatitis is treated - from measures you can take at home to medications you may need to use.
Pityriasis Rosea Pictures
Pityriasis rosea is a common itchy rash that resolves on its own. The rash starts with a "herald patch" then spreads in a characteristic pattern. Find out more about what these phases look like.
Chicken Pox in Pregnancy
A pregnant woman who gets a primary chicken pox infection has a greater risk of serious complications and of having an infant with birth defects or serious infection. Learn more about the effects of chicken pox in pregnant women.
Dyshidrotic Dermatitis
Dyshidrotic dermatitis, also known as pompholyx, is an intensely itchy rash that occurs on the hands and feet. Find out more about what dyshidrotic dermatitis looks like and how it is treated.
Water Urticaria
Water urticaria, or aquagenic urticaria, is a rare form of hives caused by exposure of the skin to water. Find out more about this form of hives.
Chicken Pox Vaccine
Since widespread vaccination for chicken pox began in the middle 1990's, the incidence of chicken pox has decreased dramatically. Find out more about how the chicken pox vaccine works, controversies surrounding the chicken pox vaccine, and who should and should not get the vaccine.
RMSF
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is a potentially fatal disease caused by a bacteria spread by ticks. Find out more about the characteristic rash that helps aids in diagnosis, and the treatment options.
Skin Changes in Pregnancy
Pregnancy causes many changes in a woman's body. Find out more about how the skin changes during pregnancy.
SebCyst
The definition of sebaceous cyst.
Shingles Rash
Shingles is a painful rash caused by reactivation of the chicken pox virus - varicella zoster. Learn more about how shingles is contracted and what the rash looks like.
Atopic Dermatitis Rash
Atopic dermatitis is a form of eczema that comes and goes. Find out more about what the rash looks like.
Epidermis Anatomy
Illustrations showing the maturation of cells from the bottom layer of the epidermis to the top layer.
Skin Self Exam
Learn how to examine your skin for the warning signs of melanoma and other skin cancers.
Pustule
The definition of pustule.
Cold Urticaria
Cold urticaria is a form of hives caused by exposure to cold. Find out more about this common form of hives and how it is treated.
MacPap
The definition of maculopapular.
Maceration
The definition of maceration.
How to Remove a Tick
Ticks can transmit serious diseases. This article describes the correct procedure to remove a tick from a person or animal.
Id Reaction
The definition of id reaction.
Acnet Treatment - Retinoids
Topical retinoids have been a mainstay of treatment for acne for many years. The most well-known retinoid is Retin-A, but now there are newer and less irritating retinoids.
Shampoos for Seborrheic Der...
Several shampoos are used to treat seborrheic dermatitis. Some of the more popular shampoos are included here.
Scabies
Scabies is a very itchy skin rash that is caused by a mite. Learn more about what the scabies rash looks like and how it is treated.
Irritant Contact Dermatitis
Irritant contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes in contact with a substance that acts as an irritant. Find out more about the appearance of irritant contact dermatitis and how it is treated.
Types of Melanoma
Melanoma is the eighth most common malignancy in the United States. Learn more about the 4 major types of melanoma that have distinct characteristics and potential for metastasis.
Lichen Simplex Chronicus
Lichen Simplex Chronicus (LSC) is a condition created by the habitual scratching of a certain area such as the neck or legs. Find out more about what causes this condition and how it can be treated.
Skin Myths
Learn about the top 10 skin myths and the truth behind them.
Moisturizer Ingredients
Moisturizing is one of the key components to a good skin care regimen, but what makes a good moisturizer? This article explores the anatomy of a moisturizer, outlining the key moisturizer ingredients and their function on the skin.
Acne Treatment - Misc
There are many topical treatments to control acne that don't fit into a specific category. The most popular of these is benzoyl peroxide. Find out more about other topical acne treatments.
Subungual Melanoma
The definition of subungual melanoma.
Papule
The definition of papule.
BCC Treatment
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. Find out more about how basal cell carcinoma is treated.
Ulcer
The definition of ulcer.
The Acne Quiz
Test your knowledge of acne and acne treatments.
EpidermCyst
The definition of epidermal cyst.
Fluctuance
The definition of fluctuance
Nits
The definition of nits.
History of Smallpox
The history of smallpox is a success story for immunization and public health. Find out more about the rise and fall of smallpox.
Lesion
The definition of lesion.
Scabies - Mite that Causes Rash
Scabies is an itchy skin rash caused by a mite under the skin.
Prevent Wrinkles - Sunscreen
Sunscreen is one of the most effective skin-care products used to prevent wrinkles. Find out how sunscreens work, how you know which sunscreen to pick, and how to apply sunscreen effectively.
Epidermis
The definition of epidermis.
ICP
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, or ICP, is a condition caused when bile is backed up in the liver. Find out more about this condition that can be harmful to the unborn baby.
Eczema Skin Care
Learn about how to take care of your skin to prevent or help treat eczema.
How Topical Steroids Work
Topical steroids work by reducing inflammation in the skin by several different mechanisms of action. Learn more about the how topical steroids work.
Wheal
The definition of wheal.
Induration
The definition of induration
Cherry Angioma
A cherry angioma is a bright red bump on the skin that is benign.
Stratum Corneum Anatomy
The stratum corneum is the outermost of the 5 layers of the epidermis and is largely responsible for the vital barrier function of the skin. These illustrations will take you through the important components of the stratum corneum that perform this complex barrier function.
Zeno
Zeno is a new handheld medical device that is used to treat certain types of acne without medication. Find out more about how Zeno works and whether it might work for you.
Cholinergic Urticaria
Cholinergic urticaria is a form of hives that causes hives to form after exercise. Find out more about this form of hives and how it can be treated.
Fitzpatrick Scale
The Fitzpatrick classification scale groups skin types by how easily they burn or tan.
Cutaneous Anthrax
The rash caused by cutaneous anthrax is fatal in less than 1% of cases treated with antibiotics. Find out more about what this rash looks like and why some people get this less serious form of anthrax.
Ingrown Nails
Ingrown nails are common and usually affect the big toe. Find out more about what causes ingrown tonails and how they are treated.
Longitudinal Melanonychia
The definition of longitudinal melanonychia.
Pressure Urticaria
Pressure urticaria is a form of hives caused by applying pressure to the skin. It is a common cause of hives and can be debilitating.
Herpes Simplex Virus Trigger Poll
Take the herpes simplex virus trigger poll and tell us what causes the recurrence of your genital herpes infection.
UVB Radiation
The definition of uvb.
Incubation
The definition of incubation period.
Rosacea
Rosacea occurs in adults and causes a red face, big nose, and adult acne. Find out more about who gets rosacea and rosacea treatments.
KOH
A Potassium hydroxide test is used to diagnose fungal infections of the skin. Find out more about the Potassim hydroxide test.
piloseb
The definition of a pilosebaceous unit.
Effects of Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a popular cosmetic procedure performed for facial skin rejuvenation. This article gives a brief review of the scientific studies that show how microdermabrasion affects the skin.
Dermis
The definition of dermis.
Bulla
The definition of bulla.
Dermographism
Dermographism is a form of hives caused by stroking the skin with an object. Find out more about this common type of hives.

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