Dermatology is a medical specialty dedicated to the study, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases of the skin, hair, nails and mucous membranes. Dermatologists are specialized doctors who treat a wide range of dermatological conditions, from mild ailments to serious and life-threatening illnesses, such as skin cancer.
Areas of Dermatology Intervention
Skin Diseases
Dermatologists treat a variety of skin conditions, including:
- Acne: A common condition that mainly affects adolescents, but also adults, characterized by pimples, cysts and scars.
- Eczema: A group of inflammatory conditions causing redness, itching and rashes.
- Psoriasis: A chronic autoimmune disease causing thick, scaly patches of skin.
- Rosacea: A chronic condition that causes redness and visible blood vessels on the face.
- Vitiligo: A disease causing loss of pigment, leaving white spots on the skin.
Skin cancer prevention
Dermatologists play a crucial role in the early detection and treatment of skin cancers, including:
- Melanoma: The most dangerous type of skin cancer, which can spread to other parts of the body.
- Basal cell carcinoma: The most common type of skin cancer, which grows slowly and is usually non-fatal.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: A type of skin cancer that can spread and requires more aggressive treatment.
Skin Infections
- Bacterial infections: Impetigo, folliculitis, boils.
- Viral infections: Herpes, warts.
- Fungal infections: Ringworm, candidiasis.
- Parasitic infections: Scabies, lice.
Hair and Nail Disorders
- Alopecia: Hair loss that can be due to various causes, such as genetics, autoimmune diseases or infections.
- Onychomycosis: Fungal infections of the nails.
- Nail growth disorders: Onycholysis, nail deformations.
Allergies and Skin Reactions
- Contact dermatitis: Allergic or irritative reactions due to contact with specific substances.
- Hives: Red, itchy rashes caused by allergic reactions.
Dermatology Procedures and Treatments
Diagnostics
- Skin biopsies: Taking skin samples for microscopic examination to diagnose skin diseases.
- Dermatoscopy: Using a dermatoscope to examine skin lesions in detail.
Medical Treatments
- Topical creams and ointments: To treat conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis.
- Oral medications: Antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, immunosuppressants.
- Phototherapy: Using UV light to treat conditions like psoriasis and vitiligo.
Surgical Treatments
- Excision of lesions: Surgical removal of benign or malignant skin tumors.
- Mohs Surgery: Specialized technique for removing skin cancers with minimal healthy tissue lost.
Aesthetic Treatments
- Laser therapy: For skin resurfacing, treatment of scars, age spots and wrinkles.
- Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections: To reduce expression lines.
- Filler injections: To restore volume and smooth wrinkles.
Alternative Therapies
- Cryotherapy: Use of liquid nitrogen to treat skin lesions such as warts.
- Chemical peels: Exfoliation of the superficial layers of the skin to treat imperfections and improve skin texture.
Prevention and Education
Dermatologists also play a key role in skin disease prevention and patient education:
- Sun protection tips: To prevent sun damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
- Skin care management: Recommendations on skin care routines tailored to individual needs.
- Chronic Disease Education: Information and support for managing chronic conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
In conclusion, dermatology is a rich and varied medical specialty that treats a multitude of conditions affecting the skin, hair and nails. Through technological advances and innovative treatment approaches, Aesthetics Clinic dermatologists are able to provide high-quality care to improve the health and appearance of their patients’ skin.
Aesthetic Treatments
- Laser therapy: For skin resurfacing, treatment of scars, age spots and wrinkles.
- Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections: To reduce expression lines.
- Filler injections: To restore volume and smooth wrinkles.