Dr Ben Esdaile

Dr Ben Esdaile
Dermatology
North London


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Dr Ben Esdaile Dermatologist in
London

BSc (hons) MBBS MRCP (Derm)

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Dr Ben Esdaile areas of expertise:

Professional statement

Dr Ben Esdaile is a prominent London dermatologist specialising in both adult and paediatric dermatology. He has a particular interest in the early diagnosis and surgery of skin cancer and lectures both nationally and internationally on dermoscopy (a tool used to detect skin cancer). He also has a special interest in psoriasis, eczema, acne and rosacea.

Dr Esdaile undertook his medical training at Imperial College London and qualified with distinction in Medicine and Surgery. He pursued and completed his specialist training in dermatology in Oxford. He has a full-time NHS Consultant post at the Whittington Hospital in North London and is involved in both undergraduate and postgraduate teaching.

He has published in multiple peer-review journals and has won an NHS clinical excellence award. He also works privately at the Highgate Hospital and Chase Lodge Hospital.


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 Doctor's articles

Melanoma (skin cancer) – how a skin-c...

 Credentials

GMC: 6076365

 Professional experience

• More than 15 years of experience
• Consultant Dermatologist, Chase Lodge Hospital (present)
• Consultant Dermatologist, Highgate Hospital (present)
• Consultant Dermatologist, Whittington Hospital (2014 - present)

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 Sub-specialties

• Acne
• Skin cancer
• General dermatology
• Paediatric dermatology
• Hair and nail disorders
• Skin surgery
• Dermoscopy
• Angioma
• Atopic dermatitis
• Autoimmune diseases
• Cellulitis
• Dandruff and seborrhea
• Dark circles
• Dermatitis
• Dermoscopy
• Eczema
• Foot fungus
• Haemangioma
• Herpes
• Hirsutism
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Hyperhidrosis
• Keloid scars
• Lichen sclerosus
• Lupus
• Lymphomas
• Melanoma
• Melasma
• Mesotherapy
• Moles
• Molluscum contagiosum
• Nail diseases
• Onychomycosis
• Paediatric dermatology
• Pemphigus
• Photodynamic therapy
• Pruritis
• Psoriasis
• Rash
• Rosacea
• Scar
• Seborrheic dermatitis
• Shingles (herpes zoster)
• Skin allergies
• Skin cancer
• Skin fungus
• Skin infections
• Solar urticaria
• Sun allergy
• Trichology
• Vitiligo
• Warts
• Alopecia

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 Positions in public associations

• Member of the Royal College of Physicians (MRCP) (2006 - present)

 Teaching posts

• Involved in both undergraduate teaching of medical students from UCL and postgraduate teaching at the Whittington Health NHS Trust.

 Education

• Royal College of Physicians, Dermatology Specialty Certificate Examination (2010)
• Diploma of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (DRCOG) (2008)
• Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), Distinction in Medicine and Surgery (2003)
• Kings College London, BSc 1:1 (hons) Biochemistry (1998)

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 Publications and conferences

• Published a number of articles in medical journals.
• Author of several book chapters.

 Prizes and awards

• Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust - Annual Staff Recognition Awards 2013 Winner in the Excellence Category (2013)

 Professional membership

• Member of Royal College of Physicians
• Member of British Association of Dermatologists
• Member of Royal Society of Medicine
• Member of British Medical Association
• Member of British Society of Dermatological Surgery
• Member of British Society for Medical Dermatology
• Member of the International Dermoscopy Society
• Member of British Hair and Nail Society

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Languages spoken

  • English

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28/11/2017

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Diseases, Medical Tests and Treatments

Acne

What is acne? Acne, otherwise known as acne vulgaris is a very common skin condition, usually featuring blackhead and whitehead spots, which happe ...

Dermoscopy

Digital dermatoscopy is a skin cancer detection technique. In addition to being used in the detection of malignant tumours of the skin, it is used for ...

Eczema

What is eczema? Eczema, also known as dermatitis, encompasses a set of skin conditions that usually cause a rash and inflammation. In most case ...

Nail diseases

Nail diseases may be caused by other other pathologies. If the nails are discoloured, or break easily, it usually indicates a nail disease.   

Paediatric dermatology

Paediatric dermatology is a specialty of this area of medicine that is based on the study, prevention and treatment of the health and the constitution of the skin of children. Through infancy, there are some diseases typical of this stage that may appear, and those illnesses that are typical in adults affect children and adolescents differently. Among the most frequent conditions in children are dermatitis (seborrheic, atopic or nappy rash), infections (warts, impetus), genetic diseases, acne, angiomas, or vascular lesions, among many others. In addition, since children's skin is different, it requires specialised care and treatment. ...

Skin cancer

What is skin cancer? Skin cancer is one of the most commonly occuring types of cancer. There are certain types of skin cancer. There are non-melanoma skin cancers which are a group of cancers that are slow-growing and develop on the upper layers of the skin. Basel cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer and start in the cells of the lower epidermis. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) accounts for around 20% of skin cancers and starts in the upper layers of the epidermis.  Melanoma skin cancer is more serious and can spread to other parts of the body.  What are the symptoms of skin cancer? Basal cell carcinoma: smooth and pearly may be firm and red  may sometimes bleed or develop a scab never completely heal  itchy Squamous cell carcinoma: tender to the touch sometimes bleed can have a hard cap the skin surrounding the mole is raised Melanomas will usually start with a change to normal skin or can develop on a mole already present. You can use the ABCDE mole checklist to help determine if a mole has become a melanoma. A – Assymetrical moles B – Border of a mole is blurred C – Colour of a mole varies D – Diameter of the mole is irregular and larger than 7mm E – Evolving (melanomas will often change over time) What causes skin cancer? Non-melanoma skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, which comes from the sun, as well as tanning beds. There are also a number of risk factors that can increase the chances of non-melanoma developing: family history of skin cancer pale skin that burns easily people with lots of moles and freckles medication of a medical condition that suppresses the immune system previous non-melanoma skin cancer Melanoma is caused by exposure to UV light from the sun or tanning beds. Melanomas are caused by very intense exposure to UV light, such as bad sunburn on holiday. The following risk factors increase your chances of developing melanoma: pale skin blonde or red hair family history of melanoma people with lots of moles and freckles How can skin cancer be prevented? It is possible to reduce your chances of developing skin cancer by reducing exposure to sunlight and avoiding sunburn. You can do this by avoiding tanning beds, covering up outdoors and wearing high SPF sunscreen. You can also avoid the sun during the hottest part of the day. It is also important to check your skin regularly and notice any changes as early diagnosis increased the chances of treatment. What is the treatment for skin cancer? Non-melanoma skin cancer can be treated firstly by surgically removing the cancerous tumour and surrounding skin. Non-melanoma skin cancer can also be removed to using cryotherapy (freezing). They can also be treated with radiotherapy and photodynamic therapy (PDT). Treatment option depends on the size of the skin cancer, the type and the location. Non-melanoma skin cancers are often treated successfully as the risk of the cancer spreading to other parts of the body is much lower than with melanomas. Melanoma skin cancer is treated surgically most of the time, however, treatment depends on the circumstances of your diagnosis. Early detection and treatment can successfully treat melanoma. Advanced melanoma treatment aims to slow down the spread of the cancer and improve the symptoms. Melanoma can return once treated, so regular check-ups are essential. ...

Acne scars

Acne marks or acne scars can be removed using different methods depending on the skin type and the type of mark on the skin. Given the high occurence of acne on the most visible part of the body, the face, it is important to choose the best treatment that avoids leaving scars behind. There are different types of acne scars, including pigmented scars and rolling scars. The former is characterised by a pink or brown colouring remaining on the skin once the spot disappears. This is due to the concentration of pigment on the spot when it is healing. Rolling scars, on the other hand, are broad depressions with sloping edges. Those with fair skin are more likely to have them. The techniques used to remove acne scars include different types of peels, dermabrasion, CO2 laser or fractioned laser. ...

Alopecia

Alopecia is the medical term for hair loss. It is an umbrella term which includes many different types which each have their own causes and treatments. Types of alopecia include male and female pattern baldness, scarring alopecia, alopecia areata, anagen effluvium, telogen effluvium, alopecia totalis, alopecia universalis, alopecia barbae, androgenetic alopecia and traction alopecia. Male pattern baldness is the most common form of alopecia, it affects around half of all men by the age of fifty, though many will have experienced hair loss to some extent by their early thirties. It generally starts with the hairline receding, followed by the thinning of the hair on the crown and temples. It is hereditary. Female pattern baldness can also occur though it is not as common and, in general, hair only thins on top of the head. There are numerous other causes of hair loss including problems with the immune system (such as hyperthyroidism and diabetes), skin conditions which can destroy hair follicles (such as lupus), chemotherapy and radiotherapy, hormonal changes, emotional stress, intense physical stress (such as childbirth), changes in diet and long-term illnesses (such as cancer). The position and the extent of hair loss also varies greatly and will depend on the type of alopecia and its cause. It may affect only the scalp, or the entire body. Hair may grow back after a short period of time, or it may never. Hair loss doesn’t necessarily need treating as it does not pose a health risk. However, it can cause distress and it can be difficult to come to terms with as it is considered to be an important part of overall identity. People may be unhappy with their physical appearance which can sometimes lead to depression. There are a number of tests which are used to diagnose alopecia including a scalp biopsy, the pluck test, the pull test and trichoscopy. One typical solution is to wear a wig. Other solutions will depend on the type of alopecia the patient has, they can be every expensive, may involve side effects, and they may not work. Minoxidi or finasteride can be used to treat male pattern baldness, alopecia aleata is usually treated using steroids, and there are surgical options such as hair transplants and hair implants. Therapy and support may also be key in providing those affected with long-term coping strategies. Some people embrace their baldness by shaving off their remaining hair. ...

Angioma

What are angiomas? Angiomas are tumours which are non-cancerous (benign), made up of small blood vessels. They appear on the surface of the skin and can be located on any part of the body. There are different types of angioma including cherry angioma, spider angioma, and angiokeratomas. These tumours are harmless but patients may wish to have them removed for aesthetic reasons. What are the symptoms of angioma? Angioma can occur on any part of the body, and they look different depending on the type. Cherry angioma: Usually purple, blue, black, or red coloured Are on top of the skin as a growth Come in single form or in clusters Can grow to ¼ of an inch in size If struck, they bleed considerably Spider angioma: Are more common in childhood and pregnancy Can be frequently food on the neck, face, arms, fingers, and back of hands Are below the surface of the skin and have a single red spot with extensions coming from it (thus the name ‘spider angioma’) Angiokeratoma Creates small marks on the skin which are red and blue Often look like warts Feel hard and do not fade when compressed What causes angiomas? The exact cause is unknown, but certain people may be more likely to get them because of genetic disposition. They are often connected with age, and they are also linked to chemical exposure, particular medical conditions, and some arise in pregnancy. Cherry angiomas are associated with ageing, and seem to appear more in individuals over 30, becoming more common in older age. How are angiomas treated? Because angiomas are benign, treatment isn’t particularly necessary, but some people do choose to have angiomas removed for cosmetic reasons. If the angioma is in a position which causes it to bleed frequently because it is knocked, this means it may need to be removed. There are several treatment options for angiomas, including freezing the lesion, burning the angioma, having laser surgery performed, or having the angioma removed through excision. In some cases surgery may be an option to cut out the angioma. Depending on the size of the angioma you may need more than one treatment session. Surgery or treatment can leave behind bruising or scarring, but this clears up after a while. How can angiomas be prevented? The cause of angiomas is not known, so prevention is not really considered. Angiomas are also not cancerous, so they are nothing to worry about if you do develop one. You may decide to have them removed, but this is easily achieved and a dermatologist or expert in aesthetic medicine can easily advise the best course of treatment.  ...

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a skin disease, sometimes chronic. Atopic skin shows inflammation and redness, and is more sensitive because it lacks certain proteins. Atopic dermatitis is more common in babies, and may appear within 2 to 6 months of age. Many people overcome it over the years. ...

Autoimmune diseases

Autoimmune diseases are those in which the immune system attacks healthy cells in your body by mistake. Autoimmune diseases tend to run in families and not the causes are known. Women are more prone to allergies. At present, there are more than 80 types of these diseases. ...

Cellulitis

Infectious cellulitis is caused by a bacterial infection that affects the upper layers of the skin, irritating and inflaming them. Despite its apparent similarity, this ailment has nothing to do with common cellulite. It is convenient to treat it quickly or otherwise, the infection can spread to the bloodstream. The symptoms include fever, pain, swelling and heat in the damaged area....

Dandruff and seborrhea

Dandruff is a condition of the scalp. This condition causes white flakes of skin to appear and sometimes it can be associated with other skin problems such as seborrhoea or psoriasis. The treatment of dandruff varies according to the severity of each case, but it includes several cosmetic medications aimed at treating its causes and decreasing the symptoms of itching and redness of the skin. Typically, shampoos or solutions are prescribed with an antifungal active principle, intended to inhibit microbial proliferation, and combined with anti-seborrhoeic and antipruritic substances. Seborrhoea is a disorder of the sebaceous glands that produce excessive secretion of fat or sebum, causing the hair to have a greasy and shiny appearance. There could be very different causes (stress, hormonal, genetic, some medications, food). Treatment of seborrhoea depends on the cause and may include shampoos or lotions with selenium and zinc pitirione, or medication to treat the associated pathology. ...

Dark circles

The treatment for reducing the appearance of dark circles around the eyes involves the injection of collagen or hyaluronic acid to the affected areas. Given the delicacy of the eye area, it is a complex but mostly pain-free treatment, although local or topical anaesthesia can be used to reduce patient discomfort. The treatment can be applied to both men and women of all ages and it is a very effective and satisfactory way to beautify that area of the face. It can be used to treat dark circles, bags and sunken circles that make faces look dull, old and tired. The results are immediately visible from the first session but to achieve the desired effect, some cases may require two to three sessions. Furthermore, the lasting effects of the surgery will depend on the patient and the amount of collagen or hyaluronic acid injected and an improvement session can be carried out once a year. ...

Dermatitis

Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin, which can generally cause flaking, itching or blisters. There are various types of dermatitis, depending on the cause that originates, although the most common are atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis.  ...

Foot fungus

Athlete's foot or foot fungus is a pathology caused by fungus known as foot ringworm. It can develop between the toes, heels, palms of the hands, etc.Athlete’s foot is contagious and can last a short term or long term, and even reappear at a later stage...

Haemangioma

It is a type of birthmark that has a reddish color. Develop at a faster rate than the child himself and with time, its size is reduced and the color becomes more clear rhythm. This is the most common benign tumor of skin. Its cause is often sporadic. ...

Herpes

What is herpes? Herpes is a disease which is caused by a virus called the herpes simplex virus. Herpes manifests in different areas on the body, and is categorised differently depending on the part infected. What types of herpes are there? The most common types of herpes include oral herpes, affecting the mouth or face, and genital herpes (often referred to as simply ‘herpes’). Herpes can also affect the eye, the fingers, or cause infection in the brain, among other parts of the body. Herpes simplex has two strains – HSV-1, or type one, affects the mouth, while HSV-2, or type two, generally causes genital infections. Is herpes contagious? Herpes is passed along by direct body contact of lesions on an affected person, or through body fluids. Even if there are no noticeable symptoms, herpes can still be passed from one person to another. Herpes is contagious, and after infection, the virus remains in the body as it is transported to nerve cell bodies. This means the virus can lie dormant until it is triggered at some point, for example by stress, poor immune function, or exposure to sunlight. Genital herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. What are the symptoms of herpes? Many people with herpes aren’t aware that they have the virus, particularly in cases of genital herpes. This is because symptoms can be very mild, and in some cases there may be no symptoms at all. However, when symptoms do present, they can be severe. Genital herpes symptoms include: Small blisters that break open and develop into painful sores Fever Swollen lymph nodes (glands around the body) Flu-like symptoms Symptoms of oral herpes are similar, in that fever, tiredness, and muscle aches may occur. One marker of oral herpes is sores around the mouth, or on the gums, tongue, inside of the cheeks, the throat, or the roof of the mouth. Before sores appear, there may be some itching, pain, tingling, or discomfort felt in the infected area. Is there a test for herpes? If sores are present, the doctor usually does not need to confirm the existence of the virus with a test, as it is already evident. However, sometimes tests can be carried out to confirm if the infection is affecting other organs in the body. What is the treatment for herpes? Treatment for herpes usually attempts to control and manage the virus, as it cannot yet be eradicated from the body. Treatments can come in the form of oral medication, usually in the form of an antiviral tablet, or a topical treatment (applied to the skin). In order to prevent against genital herpes spreading to others, sex should be avoided until any sores have cleared up. When sores are present, the condition is especially contagious. When symptoms are not present, it is important to use a condom in order to prevent the virus from spreading. In the case of oral herpes, try to avoid kissing others if a cold sore is present.    ...

Hirsutism

Hirsutism is the presence of excessive body hair in places where hair does not usually grow. In most cases, this abnormal growth of hair is produced by a greater presence of androgen hormones. Hirsutism is usually hereditary, although polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is another common cause. ...

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus that infects the skin and mucous membranes in humans. There are over 100 different types, most of them harmless, but some are associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer or dysplasia (abnormal cell changes in the surface of the cervix). These are acquired through sexual contact with an infected partner, and can be low risk or high risk. The low-risk types can cause genital warts. The high-risk can cause cervical, vulva, vagina and anus cancer in women; and cancer of the penis and anus in men. It is possible that the affected person has no symptoms; in the case of women, regular Pap smears can detect changes in the cervix that may end up leading to cancer. There is no cure for HPV. The treatment of cervical dysplasia that does not go away, may include surgery to remove the abnormal tissue. ...

Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating production. Currently, there are different treatments for axillary hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating. The most recommended are laser therapy, which is final, or botox, which requires a session every 9 to 12 months, depending on the case. The operation of hyperhidrosis with laser is performed under local anaesthesia from a small incision (about 2mm ) in the armpit, whereby the optical fiber laser, which will destroy most of the structures of the glands is introduced sweat. This intervention prevents bleeding, swelling and bruising. On the other hand, treatment with injections of small doses of Botox underarm temporarily block the nerves that stimulate excessive sweating of the armpits. The advantage of this treatment is that it requires anaesthesia.   The treatment of excessive underarm sweating, or hyperhidrosis, is an intervention that aims to reduce sudoríporas glands responsible for excessive production of sweat. Currently, there are ways to solve axillary hyperhidrosis, but the most recommended are the traditional surgical or laser treatment, which is final, or infiltration abotulínica toxin or botox, which requires a session every 9 or 12 months, depending on the case . The laser operation hyperhidrosis is performed under local anesthesia from a small incision (about 2 mm) in the armpit, in which the optical fiber laser, which will destroy most of the structures of the glands is introduced sweat. This intervention prevents bleeding, swelling and bruising. Furthermore, treatment with injections of small doses of Botox underarm temporarily block the nerves that stimulate excessive underarm sweating. The advantage of this treatment is that it requires anesthesia. ...

Keloid scars

Keloid scars are formed during the healing of a wound. In the process, too much scar tissue is formed and causes abnormal growth, which is usually large and red. Keloid scars and hypertrophic scars are different. These are less thick and deformed.         ...

Lichen sclerosus

Lichen sclerosis is a disease that affects the skin of the genital and anal area. It is more common in women, especially after menopause. The disease initially manifests with small white pustules, which tend to grow over time. Circumcision is recommended for men, while for women it is recommended to apply topical creams that contain cortisone. Lichen sclerosis is not contagious. ...

Lupus

Lupus is a chronic, systemic inflammatory disease. It is an immune disease of unknown origin that affects the joints and muscles and can damage the skin and almost all organs (heart, lungs, kidney and brain). Specifically, lupus disease causes pain and swelling in the hands, wrists, elbows, knees and feet. The patient also suffers fatigue, fever, weight loss and problems with the skin. Also, depending on the organ affected, different symptoms may appear. There are two types of lupus: systemic lupus erythematosus, with episodes of inflammation in joints, tendons, and other connective tissues and organs; and cutaneous lupus erythematosus, characterized by well-defined round red spots on the skin. Corticosteroids are considered the basic treatment for lupus. ...

Lymphomas

Lymphoma is a type of neoplasm (tumour) that affects lymphocytes. It is also known as a haematologic solid tumour, to differentiate it from leukaemia. There are two types of lymphoma: Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphomas. They are classified according to their cellular origin, evolution, treatment and prognosis.   ...

Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that forms from the skin cells called melanocytes, which give the skin its pigment. This type of skin cancer can also be called malignant melanoma and is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, with a mortality rate of around 20% if the cancer goes undetected.   What causes melanoma?   Melanoma is most often caused by over-exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. It is more common in older people due to the cumulative effect of years of exposure to the sun, and is especially common in areas of the body that are more exposed to the sun such as the face, back of the neck, hands and arms. Due to this, melanoma is also more common in people with a fair complexion, and with people that have been sunburnt as a child. Having said that, it is a myth that people with darker skin are not affected, as they also carry a risk if not protected from the sun. Where they commonly develop in areas that receive a lot of sun exposure in fair coloured skin, in darker skin types they more commonly develop on the soles of the feet, palms of the hand and in the finger nail beds, and can easily go unnoticed. Melanoma can also be genetic, with around 5% of cases of melanoma thought to be genetically passed on.   What are the symptoms of melanoma?   Melanomas are often noticed by the person rather than diagnosed by a doctor. A sign of a melanoma is a mole that changes shape or size, or that the border of the outline changes and becomes more blurred. Another symptom is when a new mole, or pigmented section of skin appears where there was nothing before. The key for checking a mole to look for signs of melanoma is the ABCDE acronym for the characteristics of melanoma:   Asymmterical shape such as two halves of a mole having a different shape irregular Border when the mole has a ‘notched’ outline Change in colour such as uneven colours or multiple colours Diameter when the size changes, or when a mole is bigger than 6 millimeters in diameter. Evolving If the mole changes overtime, or develops other symptoms such as itchiness or bleeding.   Melanoma treatments   The treatment of the melanoma depends on the type of melanoma, the severity and the position on the body, and whether the cancer has spread. Some of the options available to your doctor include surgery, with different methods available to remove the melanoma. Radiotherapy may be considered if the cancer has spread, or it may be decided that a melanoma vaccine is the best option, which aims to kill the cells using the body’s own defence mechanisms. This form of treatment is still being developed. If you are concerned you may have a melanoma, and would like to be diagnosed. Make an appointment with a specialist here: https://www.topdoctors.co.uk/melanoma ...

Melasma

What is melasma? Melasma, also known as cholasma, is a skin condition where patches of skin on the face take on a light or dark brown colour. It’s more noticeable in the summer, because these patches tend to tan more than the parts which are not affected. Melasma is a common condition, affecting women much more than men , and pregnant women in particular. Is melasma a serious condition? Melasma is not contagious, and it doesn’t develop into skin cancer or other health conditions. However, there is no cure for melasma, though there are a number of treatments (see below). If melasma occurs during pregnancy, the condition is likely to disappear again after a few months. Symptoms of melasma Melasma appears as darker patches of the face, usually the cheeks and nose. Patches might be small at first but grow larger over time. Unlike moles, they are flat, not raised. In some cases, you might get patches of dark skin on the neck and arms. There is no itchiness or soreness, or any pain from melasma – the only symptom is the cosmetic difference it makes to your skin. Medical tests to diagnose melasma Melasma is usually straightforward to diagnose simply by looking at the pigmentation of the skin and the pattern made by the patches. In some cases, however, a dermatologist might recommend taking a small sample of skin to examine. This operation should be quick and will involve the use of local anaesthetic. What are the causes of melasma? What causes melasma is unknown. However, there are a lot of things that can increase your chances of developing it: having a darker skin type pregnancy use of contraceptive medication a family history of the condition sun exposure Treatments for melasma There is a certain amount that you can do yourself to manage melasma and improve the appearance of your skin. A dermatologist can also offer some options for treatment if these strategies haven’t worked. What can I do? Protect yourself from the sun – sun protection is important not only to manage melasma but to reduce your chances of developing skin cancer. You can reduce your exposure to the sun by using a high-factor suncream (30 and above), wearing a hat when it’s sunny outside, and avoiding the use of tanning salons. Skin lightening creams – some skin lightening creams can be purchased over the counter, but might not be as effective as those prescribed by a dermatologist (see below). Cover-up makeup – some brands of makeup are designed to cover up darker marks, and you might be able to get a recommendation from a dermatologist. What can a dermatologist offer? Prescription skin-lightening creams – these often contain a chemical called hydroquinone which prevents skin cells from producing melanin. There are side effects to the use of this cream, including skin irritation, and it does not work for everyone, so you can only get this cream on prescription from a doctor. Surgical procedures – a number of procedures can treat melasma, including microneedling, chemical peels, and laser therapy. Each type of procedure has associated risks and could make the condition worse, so it should be performed by an experienced specialist. Skin camouflage – a skin camouflage service can provide a cream that matches your skin type and covers up any dark patches on your skin. There are around 80 skin camouflage clinics in the UK offering advice and skin products for a range of skin conditions. Click here to find a dermatologist near you. ...

Mesotherapy

Mesotherapy is a treatment for the rejuvenation and stimulation of cellular regeneration through the infiltration of different active principles. These can be hyaluronic acid, vitamins or platelet-rich plasma that are injected with very fine needles in the area of the skin to be treated, previously relaxed with topical anaesthesia. Mesotherapy causes cell stimulation through this double process: the slight puncture activates the cells and they become more receptive to the vitamins or injected substances to nourish and hydrate them. This treatment is painless and offers highly satisfactory results as it achieves rejuvenation of the affected skin cells. ...

Moles

Moles, or nevi, are common pigmented patches. They usually appear during childhood or adolescence without known cause, grow with the patient, and tend to darken. They do not usually cause complications but it is important that a dermatologist checks it out to rule out possible melanoma. ...

Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a skin disease caused by a virus that manifests as papules or small lumps on the skin. It is a very common infection in children spread by contact with contaminated objects (clothes, toys) and usually appears on the face, neck, armpits, arms or hands. ...

Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis, nail fungus or ringworm of the nails is a nail infection caused by fungi. It is an annoying disease but if left untreated it can become chronic. ...

Pemphigus

Pemphigus is a group of rare diseases that affect the immune system. They cause blisters on the skin and mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, throat or genitals.   ...

Photodynamic therapy

Photodynamic therapy is a method for the treatment of certain skin lesions. It consists of the application of a photosensitizing cream on the area of the skin to be treated and its subsequent irradiation with a dose of light red light. This technique causes a photochemical reaction that destroys atypical or altered cells without injuring those that are healthy. Among its many applications, photodynamic therapy is used for the treatment of: rosacea and certain types of acne; some types of skin cancer, such as basal or squamous carcinoma; fine wrinkles and aged skin; sun damage; scars; among others. Thanks to the photodynamic therapy it is possible to increase the oxygenation, brightness and smoothness of the skin, as well as repairing the skin lesions and eliminating the toxins. ...

Pruritis

Pruritus is a type of skin irritation that can induce itchiness. It is very important not to scratch the affected areas. There are several possible causes for pruritus: atopic dermatitis, dry skin, urticaria, sunburn, insect bites or psoriasis, among others. If the condition persists, it is necessary to see a specialist. ...

Psoriasis

What is psoriasis? Psoriasis is a condition that affects the skin, causing patches of red rash, and flaky patches of silvery skin, which can sometimes be itchy or sore. The condition can present anywhere, but is most common on the scalp, elbows, knees and lower back. It can affect men and women of any age, but is more common in adults under 35 years old. It is non-contagious and the severity differs between people, with some only affected a little, and others affected greatly. Psoriasis is a chronic condition, meaning that it lasts a long time. It usually has periods with mild or no symptoms, followed by periods of more severe symptoms. What are the different types? The most common types of psoriasis are as follows: Plaque psoriasis The most common form of psoriasis, and shows as raised, red patches of skin covered with silvery patches of dry skin, known as plaques. Plaques can appear anywhere, but usually appear on elbows, knees, lower back and scalp. The plaques can be sore and itchy, and may crack and bleed in some cases. Nail psoriasis The nails are affected in around half of the people with psoriasis. Small dents may appear, and the nails may become discoloured or grow abnormally. The nails can become loose and separate from the nail bed, and in severe cases the nails may crumble. Guttate psoriasis This form often starts in childhood, and appears in the form of small, dot like lesions. It is the second most common form of psoriasis. This form often starts after a throat infection, but in most cases will disappear after a few weeks. Inverse psoriasis Folds of the skin such as elbows, knees, groin, buttocks and under the breasts are usually affected by this form. It appears as large, red smooth patches, and becomes worse by friction and sweating. Pustular psoriasis This is characterised by small, white blisters surrounded by red skin. It is not an infection, or contagious and can affect any part of the body, particularly the hands and feet. What are the causes of psoriasis? The cause of psoriasis is unknown, but is due to the skin cells being replaced more quickly than usual, which is possibly a problem with the immune system. The normal process for skin cell production is the production of the new cell in the deeper layers of the skin, the new cells gradually move up through the layers, until they reach the top layer, where they then die and flake off. This usually takes around three to four weeks. With psoriasis, the process only takes three to seven days, causing a build-up of skin cells that are not ready to flake off. Psoriasis can sometimes be triggered due to injury, stress, smoking, drinking alcohol and certain medications. What is the treatment? Mild psoriasis can be treated with skin creams. These can reduce swelling, soreness, itching and reduce the rate of skin cell growth. These may include steroid creams, moisturisers, and coal tar especially in the form of a psoriasis shampoo. More severe forms of psoriasis may be treated with phototherapy. The treatment exposes your skin to ultraviolet light which helps to treat the condition. You may be prescribed a medicine to help cure problems with your immune system that may be leading to psoriasis. ...

Rash

Rashes are irritations that appear on the skin. There are different types, depending on the colour and the texture that they present as well as the causes. The most common are contact dermatitis, which appears as a reaction of skin contact with certain products (from soaps, to materials such as latex or rubber); seborrheic dermatitis, a harmless rash that manifests itself with red areas and flaking, especially on the face and torso, usually caused by stress or the use of lotions or soaps that contain alcohol. In addition, there are numerous conditions that show skin rashes as symptoms: childhood diseases such as chickenpox or measles; herpes zoster virus; psoriasis and eczema; insect bites or reactions to certain medications. Treatment for skin rashes depends on the causes, and can range from creams to oral medications. ...

Rosacea

What is rosacea? Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes a facial rash, which may include red blotches, telangiectasia (spider veins), pimples or spots, and possibly a burning sensation on the skin of the cheeks, nose, chin and forehead. It is a long-term pathology that appears more frequently in middle-aged people and can vary in intensity.   What are the symptoms of rosacea? Rosacea can manifest as several symptoms, including: Redness of the face (often giving the appearance of blushing) Bumps or pimples on the skin Patches of rough, dry skin Swelling, particularly around the nose and eyes (a bulbous red nose is a common indicator of severe rosacea) A burning or stinging sensation Telangiectasia (spider veins – thin and reddish lines form under the skin because the blood vessels under the skin are enlarged. Eye problems, including itching, dryness, swelling, light-sensitivity, bloodshot or watery appearance, etc. Different patients may experience a different selection of symptoms, the most common being the unexplained redness of the face, which often bears a resemblance to acne (although the two are distinct conditions). Rosacea tends to flare up in cycles, with patients suffering symptoms for a period of weeks or months, before the symptoms disappear for a similar period.   What are the causes of rosacea? The cause of rosacea is unknown but there are several factors that are thought to contribute to or worsen it. For example excessive consumption of alcohol, caffeine or hot and spicy food is thought to trigger episodes, as can intense physical activity. Other factors include: Age – rosacea occurs most commonly in people between 30 and 50 years of age. Skin type – fair-skinned people seem to be more susceptible (especially those with blond hair and blue eyes). Genetics – family history of the condition means you are more likely to suffer from rosacea. It it also more common in people of Celtic and Scandinavian ancestry. Hormonal changes (e.g. the menopause) Sudden changes in temperature Exposure to sun or wind Stress Some medications Certain bacteria, e.g. helicobacter pylori   Can rosacea be prevented? Rosacea is not a pathology that can be prevented, but you can still avoid severe episodes by starting treatment as soon as possible when symptoms flare up, and keeping your skin hydrated. Other tips include identifying and avoiding the things that a flare-up, avoiding products that irritate the skin, and generally taking care of your skin, by using sun cream, make-up suited to our skin type, and gentle shampoos and gels to avoid further irritation.   What is the treatment for rosacea? Although there is no cure, the symptoms can be managed. Rosacea can triggered by different things in different patients, so treatment differs accordingly. The doctor may prescribe drugs, such as antibiotics and tetracycline derivatives, topical preparations, or laser or intense pulsed light therapies. ...

Scar

Scars are the result of a process in the natural recovery of the skin. Damage can be external (trauma or surgery) or caused by inflammatory processes or diseases such as acne. The healing process usually ends with a seamless recovery of damaged skin. But sometimes these scars become unsightly. Most of these scars can be corrected. Those that suffer changes in the colour of the skin can be treated using different types of light and laser to correct them. If the scars are raised, the combination of steroid injections and exposure to lasers or light sources can help. Those showing irregular texture can be corrected with ablative lasers and, if the scars have broad indentations, surgical correction or filling with hyaluronic acid is recommended. ...

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin disease characterised mainly by the appearance of white or yellowish scales on the body parts where more fat tissue can be found, such as the face, scalp or inside the ear. If seborrheic dermatitis affects babies, it is called cradle cap. Currently there is no known cause of seborrheic dermatitis. It seems to be hereditary but can also be caused by hormone levels, weak immune system, lack of nutrients or a fungus called Malassezia.     ...

Shingles (herpes zoster)

What is shingles? Shingles is a viral infection that causes a tender and painful rash which most commonly presents either on the right or left hand side of the torso. You can also get shingles on your face, eyes and genitals. Shingles is not life-threatening, but it can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. What are the symptoms of shingles? The first signs of shingles is usually a pain felt in the area of skin, a headache and generally feeling unwell. A few days after these symptoms, a rash will present. The shingles rash is red, blotchy and appears on just one side of your body. The red blotches turn into small, itchy blisters that ooze fluid. Eventually these blisters dry out and form little scabs. Even after the rash has gone, the area of skin affected can remain painful. The rash can take up to 4 weeks to heal. Other symptoms experienced with shingles include: fatigue sensitivity to light fever What causes shingles? Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes the chickenpox. Anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles as the virus stays in your nervous system, remaining dormant for years. If the virus reactivates, it moves along the nerve pathways resulting in shingles. Shingles is not contagious to people who have had chickenpox. For people who not had the chickenpox, exposure to shingles can cause them to come down with the chickenpox. This can be dangerous in older people, pregnant women, newborns and people with weakened immune systems. How can shingles be prevented? There are two vaccines that can help avoid shingles. The first is the chickenpox vaccine which is usually given to adults who have never had the chickenpox. This vaccine cannot guarantee you against the chickenpox, but it can significantly reduce your chances. The second preventative measure is the shingles vaccine. This is available in the UK to people over the age of 70 or 78. This vaccine proved to be ineffective on people aged over 80 however. Even if you do contract shingles after the vaccine, the symptoms will be much milder. For people with shingles, they should avoid work or school until the rash scabs over. How is shingles treated? To treat shingles, there are some techniques to relieve the discomfort, including: over-the-counter painkillers wearing loose-fitting clothing use cooling creams use a cool compress wrapped in a towel a few times a day There are also a couple of measures to avoid: do not let plasters pr dressings stick to the rash do not use antibiotic cream as this slows the healing process Although there is no cure for shingles, you can take anti-viral medication to reduce the risk of complications and to help the healing process. For people experiencing severe pain, prescription painkillers will be considered. ...

Skin allergies

Skin allergies are an immune reaction that is produced by the presence or contact with certain substances or products (allergens). Reactions can vary depending on the product that causes the allergy to the person: perfumes, lotions, cosmetics, flowers, foods. In addition, there are different types of skin allergies: food allergy, contact dermatitis, and atopy. The common symptoms that cause skin allergies are skin rashes, inflammation, redness, burning, pruritus or itching, but severe complications may occur depending on the case. It is therefore important to consult with a specialist when these symptoms appear and which are often sudden and sometimes can cause suffocation or choking and put the patient's health at risk. The treatment usually involves taking antihistamines to attack the allergy and its symptoms as a first step. But then it is recommended to perform allergy tests to identify the allergen that causes that reaction in the body and to be able to treat it directly. In most cases, avoiding the substances that cause the allergy is enough. ...

Skin fungus

Skin fungus can produce infectious diseases called cutaneous mycoses. The symptoms are redness, itching, and stinging in the affected area. There are two types of fungi: yeast or candida which cause candidiasis, and dermatophytes, which cause dermatophytosis or tinea. ...

Skin infections

Cutaneous infections are skin diseases that are caused by the attack of different types of germs, which provoke a local reaction in which different cells and microorganisms present in the skin are destroyed. Initially, the affected area becomes inflamed and presents a reddish, stinging and burning sensation, which usually ends up causing an abscess and an ulcer on the skin, or a fistula. The most frequent infections can be classified according to their origin: bacterial, like staphylococcus or impetigo; viral, such as warts, molluscum contagiosum or herpes simplex; those caused by fungi, such as candida infections; or those caused by skin parasites such as scabies or lice. The treatment of cutaneous infections depends on the causes, although in most cases it will be necessary to clean the lesion with hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, and apply creams that contain antibiotics or take the antibiotics orally, as determined by the specialist. ...

Solar urticaria

Solar urticaria manifests with erythema and hives just a few minutes after exposure to sunlight (usually after 10 minutes). The first symptom is pruritus, followed by erythema and hives. These reactions usually disappear after about three hours. However, if the exposure to the sun is excessive, the symptoms can be intensified and can include headache, hypotension and even bronchospasm. It is classified in different types, according to the wave of light that provokes it. The treatment will depend on each case, but the use of sunscreens with a high protection factor is very important, as well as the use of suitable clothing that prevents the filtration of the sun's rays. The administration of medication for the most serious cases must be prescribed by a specialist....

Sun allergy

Sun allergy is a reaction of the skin when exposed to sunlight. It is a reaction of the immune system and usually affects people with fair skin, especially children. However, the cause does not lie in the sun, but in the interaction of sunlight with other products (cosmetics, medicines, perfumes, lotions, and even sunscreens), which causes an immune hypersensitivity response. Also, an allergic reaction to the sun may be due to other diseases, such as cirrhosis of the liver or hepatitis, and immune system disorders, among others, such as taking certain medications (contraceptives, antibiotics). The most common presenting symptoms are redness, rash (rash, sometimes with vesicles or blisters), and itching. However, the level of involvement and severity of the reaction depends on the skin of each person as well as the exposure time required to trigger the symptoms. Similarly, the doctor will assess what is the best treatment for each case, which may be based on prescription antihistamines and skin preparations or just eliminating the use of certain cosmetics or medications that have caused allergy.   ...

Trichology

Trichology is the science that studies the diagnosis and treatment of alopecia, problems of hair, scalp and hair follicles, comprising dandruff among others. The head is one of the main areas of our body and is constantly subjected to different factors that can harm the health of our hair or scalp like the sun, hair styling products or other causes. Such factors can alter the nervous and vascular irrigation system of the head causing aging and early impoverishment of the skin and hair. The different techniques of trichology consist of treating the hair as an extension of the skin and improving its health. Trichology ...

Vitiligo

What is vitiligo? Vitiligo is a condition that consists of a progressive depigmentation of the skin in different areas of the body causing white spots. The depigmented areas of the skin can manifest themselves in different ways – either spread over the body or in specific locations (for example, only on one side of the body). Its appearance can arise at any age. What are the symptoms of vitiligo? The main and visible symptoms of vitiligo are white spots on the skin. These are more common in those areas more exposed to the sun such as hands, feet, arms, face or lips. Other areas may include the armpits, groin, eyes, nostrils, navel, genitals and rectal areas. Often people with this condition have grey hair prematurely and those with dark skin may notice a loss of colour inside their mouth. What causes vitiligo? This disease is caused by the destruction of certain cells known as melanocytes which are responsible for the creation of melanin, a pigment in the skin. Though the causes are not clear, vitiligo is associated with conditions of an autoimmune origin, such as Addison's disease or diabetes. Can vitiligo be prevented? Due to the lack of conclusive studies about the cause of vitiligo, there is no absolute way to prevent this disease. One way to try and prevent vitiligo is to avoid sun exposure, especially at times when the heat intensity is high. Applying sun lotion may help too. What is the treatment for vitiligo? Depending on the severity of each case - the number of spots, the rate of spread and the patient's preferences, the treatment will vary. Not all treatments are appropriate for all patients. A large number of treatment options may involve unexpected side effects, or may be prolonged and sometimes, without the desired results being achieved. There are certain medications that can be applied directly to the skin or taken orally oral, which can be combined with ultraviolet light to remove the white spots. Surgical treatments include skin grafts taken from the patient's own tissue. Tattoos have been used as well, especially for those who have small affected areas. Thirdly, using sun lotions can help, and using makeup or dyes to cover the white spots. ...

Warts

Warts are small skin lesions or growths that are usually painless and harmless. There are many types of warts: Common warts usually appear on the hands and are common in children. Genital warts grow on the genitals an surrounding areas. They are caused by the human papilloma virus and it is advisable to see a doctor if symptoms occur Plantar warts appear on the soles of the feet and can be very painful. There are also subungual and periungual warts that are underneath or around the fingernails or toenails. ...

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