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Moles (Nevi)

A mole, also known as a nevus (plural: nevi), is a very common skin growth. Moles develop as a result of clusters of melanocytes (pigment producing cells) in the skin. Although a mole can be present at birth (called a congenital nevus), most nevi appear during childhood and adolescence. Most people have between 10-40 moles. Moles can vary in size, shape, and color. Common moles are typically round or oval in shape. Though they can be various colors (pink, flesh colored, tan, brown, blue or black), most moles are uniform and homogeneous in color. Moles can be flat or raised and occur anywhere on the body. Some people can have moles which are more atypical in appearance - commonly referred to as atypical moles or dysplastic nevi.

Atypical moles can be larger in size, more irregular in shape, and with more color variation. Though atypical moles are benign and not cancerous, they can be more difficult to differentiate from a deadly form of skin cancer called melanoma. Visit your dermatologist if you notice any new, unusual, changing, or symptomatic moles.

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Skin Care — Pittsburgh, PA — South Hills Dermatology, PC

How to Use Topical Retinoids

29 Mar, 2024

Topical retinoids are available in many over the counter skin care products as well as prescription strength medications. They work to treat a variety of skin care problems ranging from fine lines and wrinkles to acne breakouts and psoriasis. Common side effects of using topical retinoids include: dryness, scaling, peeling, irritation, redness, burning, stinging, itching, and sun sensitivity. Below are some general tips on how to use a topical retinoid, but individual needs may vary. Follow your doctor’s guidance for how you should use a topical retinoid.

Skin Tags

29 Mar, 2024

Skin tags are very common, benign, skin growths. They present as fleshy outgrowths of the skin, at times extending from a stalk or stem. They are frequently found in areas of high friction such as around the neck, in the axilla (armpits), or in the groin folds. They are usually flesh colored, but can also be darker in color. They can vary in size, from a couple of millimeters to a few centimeters in size. Though harmless, skin tags can be removed if bothersome or symptomatic.

Melanoma

29 Mar, 2024

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer originating from the pigment producing cells in the skin called melanocytes. Though not as common as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, it is more deadly because of its ability to spread to other parts of the body. Melanomas can have various appearances. The ABCDEs and Ugly Duckling Sign are two commonly used methods to help identify melanomas. The ABCDEs is a mnemonic used to remember warning signs for melanoma:

Rosacea

29 Mar, 2024

Rosacea is a common skin condition which presents with redness of the face, small visible blood vessels on the nose and cheeks, and pimple-like breakouts. Rosacea can also affect the eyes (ocular rosacea) presenting with symptoms such as dryness, redness, burning, and itching of the eyes. Rosacea most typically affects middle-aged women. Though the cause is unknown, treatment options are available including: prescription topical medications, prescription oral medications, and laser therapy.

Dermatomyositis

29 Mar, 2024

Dermatomyositis is a rare disease that causes a skin rash and muscle weakness. The skin rash can present reddish to purplish, dusky discoloration and swelling of the eyelids, particularly the upper eyelids (heliotrope rash). A red rash may also appear on the chest, shoulder, neck or back. Affected individuals may develop pinkish purplish papules over the joints of the hands (Gottron papules) and ragged cuticles with associated nailfold redness. The scalp may be involved with inflammation, scaling, itching and thinning of the hair.

Psoriasis

29 Mar, 2024

OVERVIEW Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes your skin cells to multiply too quickly. As a result, your skin becomes itchy, flaky, and inflamed as this sped-up growth cycle interferes with the typical skin turnover process. Psoriasis is not a contagious condition. It also cannot be spread from person-to-person contact. Instead, it occurs as a result of the overactivation of your immune system, resulting in the body attacking normal tissue.

Acne

29 Mar, 2024

Acne is a common skin condition caused by the blockage of hair follicles by sebum (oil), dead skin cells, and bacteria. The blocked pores lead to whiteheads, blackheads, inflammatory papules or nodules (red, tender bumps), pustules (pus-filled bumps), and even cysts. Acne breakouts can occur at any age but are most common during the teenage years. Hormonal changes, certain medications, and the use of oily or greasy products are some factors that can contribute to breakouts. Acne breakouts most typically occur on the face, chest, back, and shoulders. Numerous treatment options are available, including but not limited to: over-the-counter products, prescription topical medications, oral prescription medications, photodynamic therapy, chemical peels, and laser therapy.