Dermatology
π§΄ What is Dermatology?
Dermatology is the branch of medicine focused on the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes.
π§ββοΈ A Dermatologist diagnoses and treats more than 3,000 skin-related conditions, from acne to skin cancer.
π§ Why Is Skin Health Important?
Your skin is the largest organ in the body. It:
- π‘οΈ Protects from infections and UV rays
- π‘οΈ Regulates body temperature
- π§ Helps sense touch, pain, and temperature
- π§ Prevents water loss
π§ͺ Common Dermatological Conditions
π¨ Condition | π Description |
---|---|
π Acne | Pimples, blackheads due to clogged pores |
πΎ Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) | Itchy, inflamed, dry patches of skin |
π΄ Psoriasis | Autoimmune disorder causing red, scaly patches |
π¦ Fungal Infections | Ringworm, athleteβs foot, yeast infections |
𧬠Vitiligo | Loss of skin pigment in patches |
π₯ Rosacea | Redness and bumps, mostly on the face |
ποΈ Skin Cancer | Unusual moles or growths (e.g., melanoma) |
π§€ Warts | Caused by HPV virus; common on hands/feet |
π Hair Loss (Alopecia) | Thinning or bald spots in scalp/hair areas |
π¬ Common Dermatology Tests & Procedures
- π Skin Biopsy β Testing a skin sample
- π§΄ Patch Testing β Identifies allergies
- πΈ Dermatoscopy β Examines skin moles with magnification
- π‘ Phototherapy β UV light treatment (for psoriasis, eczema)
- βοΈ Cryotherapy β Freezes off warts or skin tags
- π§ͺ Blood Tests β Detect systemic causes of skin issues
πββοΈ Skincare & Prevention Tips
- π§΄ Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) daily
- π§ Keep your skin hydrated β use moisturizers
- πΏ Shower after sweating to prevent breakouts
- π§½ Avoid harsh soaps; use gentle, pH-balanced products
- π Eat a skin-friendly diet rich in vitamins A, C, E, and zinc
- π©Ί Get annual skin checks, especially if you have moles or fair skin
π Special Areas of Dermatology
β¨ Field | π Focus |
---|---|
πΆ Pediatric Dermatology | Skin conditions in infants and children |
π Cosmetic Dermatology | Botox, fillers, chemical peels, laser treatments |
π¦ Dermatopathology | Lab-based diagnosis of skin diseases |
π§β𦲠Trichology | Hair and scalp disorders |
π Nail Disorders | Fungal, brittle, or ingrown nails |