Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a common chronic skin condition that causes itchy, red, and inflamed skin. It usually starts in childhood, but it can also develop in adults. It is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, the environment, and the immune system. There is no cure for atopic dermatitis, but there are treatments that can help to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

What are the Symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis is characterised by dry, itchy, red, and inflamed skin. The skin may also be cracked and oozing. The affected areas can be anywhere on the body, but they are most often found on the face, neck, arms, legs, and inside the elbows and knees.

It can be a very distressing condition. The itching can be severe and can interfere with sleep, work, and school. The skin can also be painful and unsightly. It can also lead to skin infections.

What are the Causes of Atopic Dermatitis?

The exact cause of Atopic dermatitis is not known, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, the environment, and the immune system.

Genetics: People who have a family history of Atopic dermatitis are more likely to develop the condition.

Environment: Certain environmental factors, such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander, can trigger atopic dermatitis.

Immune system: The immune system of people with Atopic dermatitis is thought to be overactive, which leads to inflammation and itching.

Pigmentary disorders refer to a group of skin conditions that affect the color of the skin, causing it to become lighter or darker than usual. These disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, sun exposure, autoimmune skin disorders, & certain medications.  One should consult a dermatologist to determine the most effective treatment as there are a variety of effective treatments available for these conditions, depending on the specific disorder & its severity.

Common Causes of Pigmentary Diseases:

Genetics: Many pigmentary disorders are caused by genetic mutations. These mutations can affect the production of melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes.

Sun Exposure: Sun exposure can damage the skin and cause the production of melanin to increase or decrease. This can lead to the development of various pigmentary disorders, such as melasma and freckles.

Certain Medical Conditions:  Some medical conditions can also cause pigmentary disorders. For example, thyroid disease can lead to vitiligo, and (Adrenocortical Insufficiency) Addison’s disease may  cause the skin to become dark.

In some cases, the cause of the pigmentary disorder may be unknown.

Dry skin is a common skin condition. It occurs when the skin loses its natural oils and moisture, making it feel tight, rough, and uncomfortable. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including harsh soaps, cold weather, low humidity, and ageing. Dry skin can lead to itching, flaking, and cracking, which can be painful and unsightly. If your dry skin is severe or persistent, it’s right to consult a dermatologist to determine the underlying cause and receive the appropriate treatment.

Common Causes of Dry Skin:

Weather: Cold, dry climates with low humidity can sap the moisture from your skin, leaving it dry and dehydrated.

Hot Showers and Baths: Frequent or prolonged exposure to hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness.

Harsh Soaps and Cleansers: Using strong soaps and cleansers that contain chemicals and irritants can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier and cause dryness.

Age: As we age, our skin tends to produce less oil, making it more prone to dryness.

Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and thyroid disorders can contribute to dry skin.

Genetics: Some people may be genetically predisposed to having naturally dry skin.

Excessive Washing: Over-washing your skin, especially with hot water and harsh cleansers, can remove its natural oils and cause dryness.

Indoor Heating and Air Conditioning: Artificial heating and air conditioning can reduce humidity levels indoors, leading to dry skin.

Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can affect your skin’s hydration levels.

Certain Medications: Some medications, such as diuretics and retinoids, can cause dry skin as a side effect.

Exposure to Irritants: Contact with certain chemicals, detergents, or allergens can trigger skin dryness.

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that primarily affects the face, causing redness, bumps, and visible blood vessels. It may also cause a burning or stinging sensation, as well as eye irritation in some cases. It’s essential to seek treatment for rosacea early on to prevent it from getting worse and potentially causing permanent damage to the skin.

Common Causes of Rosacea Include:

Genetics: A family history of rosacea increases the likelihood of developing the condition.

Abnormal Blood Vessels: Rosacea is believed to be associated with blood vessel abnormalities, leading to facial redness and flushing.

Demodex Mites: An overgrowth of these tiny mites on the skin may play a role in triggering rosacea.

Immune System Response: Inflammation caused by an abnormal immune response can contribute to rosacea symptoms.

Triggers: Certain factors like spicy foods, alcohol, hot beverages, sun exposure, and extreme temperatures can exacerbate rosacea.

Blood Vessel Dysfunction: Blood vessel dilation and increased blood flow to the skin surface are common in rosacea.

Dermatitis: Pre-existing skin conditions, like seborrheic dermatitis, can worsen rosacea symptoms.

Environmental Factors: Exposure to wind, humidity, and sunlight can trigger or worsen rosacea.

Age and Gender: Rosacea is more common in people over 30 and affects women more than men.

Vitiligo is a skin condition that causes the loss of pigmentation in the skin. It is caused by the destruction of melanocytes, which are the cells responsible for producing pigment. There are also various other autoimmune skin disorders that can affect the skin. These conditions occur when the immune system attacks the body’s tissues, including the skin. Consulting with a dermatologist can help you determine the right treatment plan for you. 

Common Causes:

Genetic Predisposition: Family history plays a significant role in autoimmune skin disorders. Having a family member with an autoimmune condition can increase the risk of developing a similar condition.

Immune System Dysregulation: In autoimmune disorders, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues in the body, including the skin. The exact triggers for this dysregulation are not fully known.

Environmental Triggers: Certain environmental factors can trigger or exacerbate autoimmune skin disorders in genetically susceptible individuals. These triggers may include infections, medications, stress, and exposure to certain chemicals.

Infections: Some infections, especially viral infections, have been associated with triggering or exacerbating autoimmune skin disorders.

Hormonal Factors: Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, may influence the development or severity of autoimmune skin disorders.

UV Radiation: Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or artificial sources can sometimes exacerbate certain autoimmune skin disorders, such as lupus or dermatomyositis.

Other Autoimmune Diseases: People with one autoimmune disorder may have an increased risk of developing other autoimmune conditions, including autoimmune skin disorders.

Diet and Gut Health: Emerging research suggests that the gut microbiome and diet may influence the development and progression of autoimmune disorders, including some skin conditions.

Sun allergy is a condition that causes the skin to become irritated or inflamed after exposure to sunlight or other sources of ultraviolet radiation. It can cause itching, redness, and in severe cases, blisters and hives.  A way to prevent sun allergy is to avoid excessive sun exposure, wear protective clothing and sunscreen with a high SPF, and consult a dermatologist.

Common Causes of Sun Allergy:

Ultraviolet (UV) Light: Exposure to UV rays from the sun is the primary trigger for sun allergies. Both UVA and UVB rays can cause reactions in sensitive individuals.

Genetics: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to sun allergy, making them more susceptible to developing an abnormal skin reaction when exposed to sunlight.

Medications: Certain medications, such as antibiotics (tetracyclines, sulfonamides), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and diuretics, can increase sensitivity to sunlight and lead to a sun allergy as a side effect.

Cosmetics and Fragrances: Some cosmetics, perfumes, and skin care products contain photosensitizing agents that can make the skin more susceptible to sun-induced reactions.

Plant Substances: Certain plants and substances found in plants, like citrus fruits and some wildflowers, contain compounds that can cause photosensitivity in some individuals.

Chemicals and Topical Agents: Some chemicals used in topical products, such as sunscreen ingredients or certain ointments, can trigger sun allergies in sensitive individuals.

Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, like lupus, porphyria, and certain types of eczema, can increase sensitivity to sunlight and lead to sun-induced skin reactions.

Previous Skin Damage: If the skin has been previously damaged by sunburn or other skin conditions, it can become more sensitive to sunlight, making it more prone to sun allergies.

Seasonal Changes: Some people may experience sun allergies more frequently during specific seasons when the sun’s intensity is higher.

Geographical Location: The prevalence of sun allergies may vary based on geographic location and the level of UV exposure.

Psoriasis is a common skin condition that causes cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin, resulting in red, scaly patches. While psoriasis is a chronic condition, there are several effective treatments available to manage its symptoms. A dermatologist can help you determine which treatment is correct for you based on the severity of your condition.

Causes of Psoriasis:

Genetics: Psoriasis tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition to the condition. If you have a close family member with psoriasis, you are at a higher risk of developing it too.

Immune System: Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing an accelerated production of new skin cells. This leads to the characteristic red, inflamed, and scaly patches seen in psoriasis.

Injuries: Physical trauma to the skin, such as cuts, burns, or bug bites, can trigger the development of psoriasis lesions, a phenomenon known as the Koebner response.

Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, especially during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can impact psoriasis symptoms. Some women may experience psoriasis improvement during pregnancy, while others may experience worsening.

Weather: Cold and dry weather conditions can dry out the skin, making psoriasis symptoms more noticeable and uncomfortable. Exposure to sunlight, on the other hand, can help alleviate symptoms for some individuals.

Acne is a skin condition that develops when oil and dead skin cells clog hair follicles resulting in pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. It can be frustrating, and in severe cases, it can even lead to scarring. With the help of our dermatologist, you will be able to find the right treatment for you and achieve clearer, smoother, and healthier-looking skin.

Common Causes of Acne:

Excess Oil Production: The sebaceous glands in the skin produce an oily substance called sebum. When there is an overproduction of sebum, it can clog the hair follicles and lead to acne.

Dead Skin Cells: The skin sheds dead cells regularly. If these cells are not properly shed and accumulate on the skin’s surface, they can mix with sebum and block the follicles.

Bacteria: Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is a bacterium that normally resides on the skin. When hair follicles are clogged, P. acnes can multiply, leading to inflammation and the formation of acne lesions.

Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can trigger acne by increasing sebum production.

Certain Medications: Some medications, like corticosteroids, androgenic steroids, and lithium, can cause or exacerbate acne as a side effect.

Diet: Although the link between diet and acne is not fully established, some studies suggest that high-glycemic foods and dairy products may influence acne development in some individuals.

Stress: Stress can lead to hormonal changes, which might contribute to the development of acne or worsen existing acne.

Comedogenic Products: Using certain cosmetic products or skincare items that are comedogenic (tend to clog pores) can contribute to acne formation.

Friction and Pressure: Constant friction or pressure on the skin from tight clothing, helmets, or chin straps can exacerbate acne, particularly in areas prone to breakouts.

Family History: If you have a family history of acne, you may be more likely to develop it yourself.

Environmental Factors: Exposure to pollutants, high humidity, and certain occupational exposures may play a role in acne development.

Viral infections can cause various skin and mucosal conditions, including warts, cold sores, molluscum contagiosum, shingles, and chickenpox, which can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful. Seeking the right treatment for these viral infections from a dermatologist can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.

Seeking Treatment for Viral Skin Infections From a Dermatologist is Essential for Several Reasons:

Diagnosis: Dermatologists at Apex Group of Clinics are experts in identifying various skin conditions, including viral infections. Proper diagnosis is crucial to differentiate viral infections from other skin conditions that may have similar symptoms.

Treatment: Our Dermatologists can prescribe appropriate medications to manage viral infections effectively. Antiviral medications can help shorten the duration of symptoms and reduce the severity of the infection.

Preventing Complications: In some cases, viral skin infections can lead to complications, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. Dermatologists at Apex Group of Clinics can monitor and manage any potential complications that may arise.

Preventing Transmission: Our Dermatologists can provide guidance on how to prevent the spread of viral infections to others, especially in cases of highly contagious conditions like cold sores or chickenpox.

Symptom Relief: Our Dermatologists can recommend treatments to alleviate discomfort and pain associated with viral skin infections, improving the overall quality of life during the infection’s course.

If you are experiencing a rash, itching, and redness on your skin after coming into contact with a particular substance, you may have contact dermatitis. This skin condition occurs due to inflammation and irritation of the skin caused by contact with a specific substance, which can be an irritant. The most effective way to treat contact dermatitis is by seeking help from a dermatologist.

Causes of Contact Dermatitis:

Allergens: Certain substances can elicit an allergic response in susceptible individuals. Common allergens include nickel (found in jewelry), fragrances (in perfumes and personal care products), preservatives (in cosmetics), and latex (used in gloves and medical products).

Irritants: Harsh chemicals, such as detergents, cleaning agents, solvents, acids, and alkalis, can damage the skin’s protective barrier and lead to irritant contact dermatitis.

Plants: Contact with certain plants like poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac can cause allergic contact dermatitis due to specific plant oils.

Medications: Certain topical medications and ointments, as well as some oral medications, can trigger a skin reaction in some individuals.

Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: Some ingredients in skincare products, makeup, and hair care items may cause irritation or allergic reactions.

Metals: Metals like cobalt, chromium, and gold, commonly found in jewelry, can lead to allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Fabrics and Clothing: Some fabrics and dyes used in clothing can cause skin irritation.

Occupational Exposures: People in certain occupations, like healthcare workers, hairdressers, and those in the cleaning industry, may be exposed to chemicals that can lead to contact dermatitis.

Friction and Moisture: Prolonged friction or excessive moisture on the skin can weaken the skin’s barrier, making it more susceptible to irritation.

Sun Exposure: Photosensitivity reactions can occur in some individuals when certain substances on the skin react with sunlight.

Fungal infections are common and are caused by a range of symptoms, including itching, redness, scaling, and blisters. It is important to consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent them from spreading and causing further complications.

Our dermatologist will provide a customised treatment plan for each patient after a detailed evaluation during the consultation.

Why is Consulting a Dermatologist Important?

Accurate Diagnosis: Dermatologists at Apex Group of Clinics have the expertise to accurately diagnose fungal infections based on clinical examination, history, and sometimes additional tests like skin scrapings or nail clippings.

Customized Treatment: Each fungal infection may require different treatment approaches. Our Dermatologists will tailor the treatment plan based on the specific type of infection, its severity, and the patient’s medical history.

Prescription Medications: Topical or oral antifungal medications prescribed by dermatologists are more effective in treating fungal infections than over-the-counter products.

Preventing Spread: Early diagnosis and treatment qcan prevent the spread of fungal infections to other areas of the body or to other individuals.

Monitoring for Complications: Some fungal infections can lead to complications, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems or certain underlying conditions. Dermatologists can monitor for any potential complications and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

Preventing Recurrence: Dermatologists can provide guidance on how to prevent fungal infections from recurring and offer advice on proper hygiene and self-care practices.

Hives are raised, itchy welts that can appear suddenly and cause a great deal of discomfort. They are frustrating and uncomfortable and can be triggered by various factors, including allergies and stress. Seeking help from a dermatologist can assist you in getting the proper treatment for skin conditions.

Causes of Hives:

Allergies: Hives can be triggered by allergens such as certain foods (e.g., nuts, shellfish, eggs), medications (e.g., antibiotics, pain relievers), insect stings or bites, and pet dander.

Medications: Some individuals may develop hives as a side effect of certain medications, such as antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and some pain relievers.

Infections: Viral or bacterial infections can sometimes lead to hives as part of the body’s immune response.

Physical Triggers: Physical factors like pressure on the skin (dermatographism), exposure to cold or heat, sunlight, or excessive sweating can cause hives in some individuals.

Stress: Emotional stress and anxiety can trigger hives in some people.

Exercise: In some cases, physical activities, particularly intense exercise, can cause hives, known as exercise-induced urticaria.

Underlying Health Conditions: Certain underlying health conditions like autoimmune disorders, thyroid problems, and chronic infections can be associated with hives.

Food Additives: Certain preservatives, flavor enhancers, and food coloring agents used in processed foods can trigger hives in some individuals.

Contact with Irritants: Some people may develop hives upon contact with substances like latex, chemicals, or specific plants.

Unknown Triggers: In some cases, the cause of hives may remain unidentified, and the condition is referred to as idiopathic urticaria.

Bacterial infections of the skin, such as folliculitis, furuncle, and skin abscesses can be painful and uncomfortable. It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a bacterial skin infection.

Causes of Bacterial Infections

Folliculitis: Infection of hair follicles, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus or other bacteria.

Boils (Furuncles) and Carbuncles: Painful, deep skin infections, typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus.

Cellulitis: A bacterial infection affecting deeper layers of the skin, often caused by Streptococcus or Staphylococcus bacteria.

Impetigo: A highly contagious skin infection, commonly affecting children, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes.

Erysipelas: A superficial bacterial infection of the skin, usually caused by Streptococcus bacteria.

Infected Wounds: Any open wound can become infected by bacteria, leading to localized infections.

Burn Infections: Burn wounds are susceptible to bacterial infections, which can impede the healing process.

Insect Bites and Scratches: Bacteria can enter the skin through bites, scratches, or puncture wounds from insects or animals.