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
Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune condition that causes the hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissue underneath it. The condition can also impact underlying blood vessels and organs. Affected individuals may exhibit Raynaud’s phenomenon - a condition where the fingers and toes may
Pityriasis alba is often thought of as a low grade form of eczema. It presents with ill-defined, light colored (hypopigmented), slightly scaly patches of skin most commonly found on the face. It affects mainly children and adolescents and is often more noticeable in darker skin tones or tanned skin.
Dermatitis herpetiformis is an autoimmune skin disease that causes recurrent, intensely itchy blisters to form on the elbows, knees, back, buttocks, and/or scalp. It is linked to the ingestion of gluten found in wheat. It can also occur with celiac disease and has been associated with thyroid disease.
Lichen sclerosus is a chronic skin condition that most commonly affects the genital skin. The affected areas become thin, white, crinkled, irritated, and/or intensely itchy. Blisters and sores can also form. Left untreated, the condition can lead to scarring and can increase an individual’s risk for
Morphea, also known as localized scleroderma, is a rare condition that causes scar-like changes to the skin. Morphea commonly presents as oval lesions on the trunk (chest, abdomen, and/or back). It can also present as a linear stripe on the arms, legs, and even the forehead or scalp. In its initial inflammatory
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
Acanthosis nigricans presents as a darkening and velvety thickening of the skin, most commonly affecting the neck, armpits, and groin region. It is most commonly associated with obesity and insulin resistance; people who have acanthosis nigricans are more likely to develop diabetes. In very rare instances,
