skin

What is dandruff?  Dandruff is a skin disease called seborrheic dermatitis that is caused by a fungus. Get rid of dandruff by using medicated shampoos, prescription medications, home remedies and alternative therapies. Having dandruff can be embarrassing. An itchy scalp can be uncomfortable, and flakes of skin falling from it can be noticeable to others. …

What is melanin? Hypopigmentation is a condition in which the skin is lighter in color than normal. Treating hypopigmentation may involve the use of topical corticosteroids or tars, light or laser treatment, or surgical skin grafting. Melanin is the substance that gives skin its color or pigment. When the skin cells that produce melanin, also called melanocytes, reduce their production, …

What is glycolic acid? Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid used for skin care. Glycolic acid is a water-soluble natural acid derived from sugar cane. Glycolic acid belongs to the family of organic acids known as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Glycolic acid is used as an ingredient in cosmetic skin care products and for dermatological treatments. Alpha hydroxy acids …

Are cherry angiomas dangerous? Cherry angiomas are noncancerous red bumps that form due to the clustering of blood vessels on the skin. Cherry angiomas are a sign of age, certain medical conditions, chemical exposure, climate factors and pregnancy. Cherry angiomas are noncancerous red bumps that form due to the clustering of blood vessels on the skin. They mostly occur in …

What is sarsaparilla? Sarsaparilla is a plant that belongs to the lily family. Sarsaparilla is used for several purposes including skin conditions, infections and kidney diseases. Sarsaparilla is a plant of the genus Smilax and it belongs to the lily (Liliacae) family. The roots of sarsaparilla are used to make a tonic of the same name. The tonic is aromatic …

What Is ingrown hair? An ingrown hair is a hair that doesn’t grow outward resulting in irritated, sensitive bumps. If mild or not infected, avoid shaving or removing the hair until the condition resolves. If folliculitis or cysts form, topical or oral antibiotics may be used along with proper cleaning and exfoliating of the skin. Ingrown hairs are trapped hairs …

What are calluses?  Calluses are thickened areas of skin that grow due to irritation. Get rid of calluses by soaking, filing, moisturizing and protecting your skin. Calluses are areas of skin that grow thicker to protect that area from frequent irritation. Since we spend a lot of time walking, calluses are primarily found on feet. Calluses develop when something repeatedly …

What are varicose veins? The main causes of varicose veins include being female, being older, pregnancy, long periods of standing, obesity, genetics, smoking, and being inactive. Varicose veins are abnormally enlarged veins. They can occur anywhere in the body, but they are usually found in the legs. Women are more likely to develop varicose veins than men. This may be …

What is a blackhead? If your blackhead begins to turn red, or you can't remove it with home treatments, call your doctor. Comedones, more commonly known as blackheads, are small, dark spots on your skin caused by a clogged pore. Contrary to common belief, the black or dark color they have isn’t from dirt — it is an oxidation of …

What percent of the population is affected by vitiligo? Vitiligo is a skin condition that changes pigmentation. Vitiligo triggers include autoimmune disease, neurogenic factors, genetics, sunburn, stress and chemical exposure. Vitiligo is a skin condition that affects about 1% of the global population. It's often viewed as a cosmetic problem since it affects your appearance, but vitiligo is a medical …