The term “skin lesion” encompasses a broad spectrum of abnormalities, including color changes, bumps, patches, rashes, and various other manifestations on or beneath the skin. From freckles and moles to itchy patches and dry areas, many different marks fall under this category. While most skin lesions are harmless, some can pose serious health risks.

1. Not All Brown Spots Are Moles

• Moles, composed of melanocytes, are pigment-producing cells that can appear flat or raised, and may present in shades of brown, black, or pink. They often develop early in life and typically cease to appear after the age of 40. However, moles can evolve over time and may even progress to skin cancer.
• Dark spots on the skin aren’t always moles; they could also be benign freckles or sunspots, which are flat pigmented areas resulting from UV exposure. Additionally, brown spots appearing after the age of 40 are often seborrheic keratosis, elevated brown bumps with a waxy or crusty texture. Importantly, unlike moles, these spots do not contain melanocytes and therefore do not carry a risk of skin cancer.

2. Scar Tissue Can Mimic Brown Spots

Dermatofibroma, for instance, presents as a flat or slightly elevated bump with white to purple scar tissue at its center, encircled by a brown rim. While they can resemble concerning brown spots, dermatofibromas are typically benign.

3. Rashes: A Surprising Culprit of Skin Lesions

Rashes, characterized by clusters of skin lesions, can affect small or large areas of the skin. Despite their diverse causes, reactions to personal care products such as creams, lotions, soaps, and shampoos are among the common triggers. The fragrances and other additives in these products often irritate the skin, leading to rash formation. Interestingly, even clothing-related products like detergents and fabric softeners can cause skin reactions due to residual chemicals.

If a rash is suspected to be product-related, transitioning to a gentler, fragrance-free alternative is recommended. Sensitivities can arise at any time, even after years of product use without issue. Persistent rashes should prompt a visit to a Northridge dermatologist for further evaluation to determine the underlying cause.

4. Skin Exam Frequency: A Personalized Approach

Unlike other medical recommendations, there are no universal guidelines dictating how often individuals should undergo skin examinations by a dermatologist. In general, scheduling an appointment upon noticing any concerning changes in the skin is advisable. During the initial consultation, the dermatologist will conduct a thorough assessment, including a review of family history and an evaluation of skin cancer risk factors. Based on this assessment, the dermatologist will recommend an appropriate follow-up schedule for skin examinations. Early detection, facilitated by regular professional evaluations, is crucial for effective management and treatment of potential skin issues.

Let’s delve into some common inquiries about birthmarks and dispel lingering myths.

Birthmarks, often overlooked, serve as unique identifiers.

The scientific community still grapples with understanding the origins and functions of birthmarks. Nevertheless, myths persist about their genesis, characteristics, and significance.

What Exactly is a Birthmark?

A birthmark presents as a pigmented spot or discoloration beneath the skin, typically evident from birth. While some may diminish over time, others persist and intensify.

Initially benign, birthmarks can undergo abnormal growth, akin to a proliferation of cells rupturing the skin. Left untreated, such anomalies can lead to sizable, potentially malignant tumors.

These irregularities manifest as dark patches on the skin, constituting a form of malformation.

Understanding Malformations:

A malformation manifests as a soft, lumpy, bluish skin discoloration caused by abnormal veins, resulting from diminished blood flow within vessel walls and subsequent clotting.

These deviations are synonymous with birthmarks, congenital anomalies, or vascular malformations.

Vascular malformations can manifest across various bodily regions, with prevalence in the limbs, face, and torso.

Dispelling Birthmark Myths:

• Maternal Impression: Suggests that intense maternal emotions during pregnancy, combined with physical contact, induce corresponding birthmarks on offspring. Lacks empirical substantiation.
• Prosperity Significance: Falsely attributes predictive or character-defining qualities to birthmarks. They represent solely superficial pigmentations devoid of metaphysical implications.
• Solar Eclipse Influence: Commonly ascribes birthmarks to maternal eclipse exposure or parental dietary effects. Unsupported by scientific rationale.

FACT: Birthmarks Can Expand
Indeed, birthmarks can enlarge, posing injury risks due to proximity to the skin’s surface, potentially leading to hemorrhage or clotting. Immediate medical intervention is advisable.

When to Consult a Dermatologist?

A simple tactile examination of a birthmark, detecting irregularities or protuberances, warrants further investigation via MRI to assess depth and extent. Subsequent treatment recommendations hinge on diagnostic findings.

While birthmarks typically parallel bodily growth, disproportionate or aberrant enlargement necessitates prompt medical evaluation.

Dermatologist in Northridge.

Ever noticed small bumps, white or yellow, around your nose, cheeks, or eyelids? Milia, small cysts under skin, cause these. Dead skin flakes or keratin stuck under skin grow into 1-2 millimeter bumps. Newborns are more prone, but anyone can get them.

If concerned, read this guide on milia. Understand causes, types, prevention, and treatment.

What Causes Milia?

Milia caused by trapped dead skin cells forming cysts under skin. Normal exfoliation sheds dead cells, but if they don’t shed, new skin grows over, trapping dead cells below. Nose, cheeks, limbs, and chest are common spots.

Other causes may include:

• Sun exposure or injury causing skin damage
• Steroid cream use
• Hereditary disease
• Autoimmune response
• Poor skincare routine
• Makeup blocking pores
• Lack of sleep
• Existing skin ailments like eczema or rosacea

Types of Milias

Neonatal Milia
Half of newborns may have milia, usually vanishing within weeks. Common on nose, scalp, cheeks, or mouth.

Neonatal milia and acne differ. Milia is consistent, lacks redness, unlike acne.

Primary Milia
Forehead, eyelids, genitals, and cheeks are typical. Can vanish in weeks or last months.

Milia en Plaque
Multiple milia clustered in a flat, elevated area. Common in middle-aged women on eyelids, face, or jaw.

Rare and linked to skin conditions like:

1. Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum
2. Lichen Planus
3. Discoid Lupus Erythematosus
4. Multiple Eruptive Milia

Gradual appearance over weeks or months, often on arms, torso, or face.

Traumatic Milia
Follows skin injury, also called secondary milia.

1. Skin resurfacing methods
2. Sun exposure
3. Blistering from allergic reaction

Preventing Milia

No surefire prevention, but care for skin can help.

Use Moisturizers and Sunscreens
Shield skin from sun, keep it moisturized. Sun exposure can toughen skin, making dead cells harder to shed.

Avoid Heavy Ointments and Creams
Irritate skin, block pores, hinder exfoliation.

Keep Your Face Clean
Prevent pores from clogging by cleaning dirt and oil. Helps natural exfoliation.

Educate Your Child
Teach kids skin care importance early. Sun protection, cleanliness habits are vital.

Getting Rid of Milia

Usually harmless, but if concerned, seek treatment.

Treating Milia at Home
Many home remedies available, but professional help recommended.

Examples include cinnamon, honey, rose extracts, but effectiveness uncertain.

Good practices:

• Clean spot daily with mild soap.
• Steam to open pores.
• Periodic exfoliation.
• Topical retinoids may help.
• Use SPF 50+ sunscreen.

Avoid scratching or plucking to prevent infection or scarring.

Professional Treatments

Clinical treatments available:

• Curettage: Dermatologist removes milia.
• De-roofing: Specialist removes milia with needle or blade.
• Cryotherapy: Uses liquid nitrogen.
• Minocycline: Oral antibiotic.

Procedures may cause temporary scarring. Long-term scarring rare.

Milia isn’t harmful, but if concerned, consult Pine Belt Dermatology experts.

Dermatologist in Northridge.

Understanding Cysts

A cyst is a sac filled with fluid that forms just beneath the skin’s surface. They are common and typically benign.

• They may present as yellow or white.
• Some may have a dark plug that, when squeezed, releases pus.
• Sizes can vary, ranging up to a few centimeters wide.

While generally painless, cysts can become tender if infected.

These cysts develop due to the skin’s production of keratin, which sometimes accumulates and forms a sac beneath the skin’s surface.

Cysts can affect anyone but are more likely after puberty, in individuals with acne, or those with damaged hair follicles. It’s important to note that they are not contagious.

Spontaneous Resolution of Skin Cysts

Most cysts resolve on their own unless they become infected. Signs of infection include continued growth, pain, and inflammation.

While typically harmless, attempting to burst a cyst can lead to infection. Consultation with a doctor or dermatologist is recommended if infection is suspected.

Understanding Lesions

Skin lesions can result from skin injury or damage, altering the skin’s appearance. They can occur anywhere on the body.

• Flat marks differing in color from surrounding skin.
• Raised bumps.
• Fluid-filled blisters.
• Raised bumps containing pus or white fluid.

Various factors contribute to their development, including sunburn, allergies, injuries, infections, and underlying medical conditions.

While lesions may itch, swell, or cause pain, these symptoms don’t necessarily indicate infection. Seek medical attention if a lesion grows, causes severe pain, bleeds, or fails to heal.

Contagion and Treatment of Skin Lesions

The contagiousness of skin lesions depends on their cause. Viruses and bacteria can spread, causing similar lesions. Treatment varies based on the cause, with options including topical or oral medications and, in some cases, surgery.

Consultation with a doctor is essential for proper treatment.

Understanding Lipomas

Skin lipomas are soft, fatty lumps beneath the skin’s surface, typically painless, and characterized by:

• Soft, ‘doughy’ texture.
• Variable sizes, ranging from pea-sized to several centimeters wide.
• Minimal movement when pressed.
• No associated pain.
• Slow growth rate.
• Matching skin tone in color.

They result from an overgrowth of fat cells, with a higher risk in individuals with a family history of lipomas. While they can occur anywhere on the body, they’re commonly found on the neck, shoulders, arms, and thighs.

Assessing the Risk of Cancer in Lipomas

Lipomas are non-cancerous growths, but monitoring for changes is essential. Treatment may involve steroid injections or surgical removal if necessary.

Understanding Skin Tags

Skin tags are small, skin-colored growths commonly found in areas such as the neck, armpits, groin, under the breasts, and eyelids. They can grow up to 5cm wide and may vary slightly in color.

While often harmless, they may require treatment if they impact self-confidence or catch on clothing or jewelry.

Interpreting Skin Tags and Cancer Concerns

Skin tags are typically benign but should be evaluated by a dermatologist if they change in size or color.

Distinguishing Characteristics of Cysts, Lesions, Lipomas, and Skin Tags

Several distinctions exist among these conditions, including their appearance, location, and contagiousness. While lesions may be contagious, cysts, lipomas, and skin tags typically are not.

Knowing When to Seek Dermatological Care

If concerned about skin growths, seek medical evaluation. Signs of infection or changes in size or color warrant immediate attention.

Understanding your skin growths helps determine whether medical intervention is necessary.

Schedule a appointment with Dr. In Northridge

There are many misconceptions about acne floating around the internet. You’ve heard plenty of stories about what causes acne, but how do you know if it’s true? We’re here to clear things up starting with debunking the top 12 acne myths.

• Only teens get acne. Acne is the most common skin disease. People of all races and ages get acne. 30% of adults, both men and women, experience acne. Although 85% of teens get some form of acne, they aren’t the only ones who can suffer from it.
• You need to wash your face more. Washing your face more often won’t cure your acne. Try to wash your face twice a day, but more than twice daily may do more harm than good. Washing your face is helpful to decrease the bacteria, but you shouldn’t overdo it.
• It’s OK to pop your pimples safely. This is never a good idea. Squeezing your pimples triggers inflammatory responses and can introduce even more bacteria to your zit. It also can cause acne scars which don’t go away.
• The sun and tanning beds clear up acne. Although it may feel like it’s drying your skin, the sun is not helpful in healing acne. The sun can inflame and dry your skin which causes your skin to produce more oil, ultimately making it worse.
• Toothpaste can clear a pimple. Toothpaste and other household items are not safe on your skin. The fluorides in toothpaste can even worsen acne. Opt for a spot treatment instead that contains salicylic acid. Your skin will thank you in the long run.
• Pores open and close. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. Since pores don’t have muscles, they can’t open and close. Steam can loosen the oils built up in pores and once clear, they can appear smaller.
• Dirty skin causes acne. Acne isn’t caused by uncleanliness. Washing your face twice a day is more than enough to remove bacteria and surface oil.
• Greasy food causes acne. Chocolate, french fries and other junk food have little to no effect on acne. There is no scientific evidence that these foods cause acne, so indulge all you want!
• Exfoliate as much as possible. Scrubbing your face really hard doesn’t just wash acne away. If you end up scrubbing too hard, it can inflame your acne, making it even worse.
• Acne only affects people with oily skin. People with all different skin types suffer from acne. All skin types can develop whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples.
• Makeup causes acne. Makeup can only irritate your skin if you’re using the wrong products. Foundations that are oil-free and lightweight won’t cause any issues, unless you forget to remove them at night. Don’t forget to wash your face before bed to remove any makeup and oil.
• Acne will go away, so you don’t need to treat it. Acne is chronic, meaning it can last a long time. It’s a condition which means it exists on your skin beneath the surface. You should always be concerned with managing your acne, and we can help.

Dermatologist in Northridge.

Warts are a common skin condition, and various treatments are available. If home remedies fail, over-the-counter wart removers are an option. If these prove ineffective, professional medical treatment, such as freezing or surgical removal, may be necessary.

Home Remedies for Warts

Several home remedies and treatments exist for common warts, though their efficacy is often limited.

• Common home remedies include applying garlic, baking powder and castor oil paste, crushed vitamin C tablets, or pineapple juice. Some individuals also use duct tape, although its effectiveness lacks sufficient evidence.

Over-the-Counter Wart Removers

Dermatologists generally endorse the use of over-the-counter wart removers, provided the diagnosis is confirmed. However, caution is advised as calluses or corns can be mistaken for warts.

• Many over-the-counter treatments contain salicylic acid, with a success rate of approximately 50% over a 6-week period. Freezing treatments are also available, with a success rate of 40%-50% after multiple applications.
• Freezing sprays are an alternative option for smaller warts, although they should not be used on facial, lip, or genital warts without consulting a doctor.

Wart Treatments From a Doctor or Dermatologist

Medical professionals offer a range of wart treatments, including those focused on wart destruction and immune system enhancement.

• Treatment options include liquid nitrogen freezing, prescription-strength salicylic acid application, trichloroacetic acid application, laser surgery, and topical immune system stimulants.

Immune therapy may take 6 to 12 weeks to produce results. Laser or surgical removal offers the quickest solution but is costlier and may lead to scarring.

Northridge Dermatology

Dealing with both stress and psoriasis is common, as stress can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms while living with psoriasis can itself be stressful. Fortunately, there are effective strategies to manage stress, which can also positively impact your psoriasis.

Explore Relaxation Techniques

Discover stress-relieving methods such as:

• Deep breathing exercises
• Meditation practices
• Tai chi movements
• Yoga routines

These techniques not only reduce stress but can also complement your psoriasis treatment. Research suggests that combining meditation with light therapy can yield even better results compared to light therapy alone.

Incorporating regular walks and indulging in long baths are also effective ways to unwind and alleviate stress.

Consider Massage Therapy

Opting for professional massages can:

• Relieve muscle tension
• Decrease stress levels
• Promote overall relaxation

If feasible, seek out a massage therapist experienced in working with individuals managing psoriasis.

• • Build Trust in Your Doctor

Establishing a trusting relationship with your doctor is essential for stress management. Remember, you and your doctor are a team. If you feel unsure about your treatment plan, seeking a second opinion can provide clarity.

Did You Know?
Combining meditation with light therapy has been shown to yield twice the improvement compared to light therapy alone.

• • Seek Professional Support

If you find coping with stress related to psoriasis challenging or experience significant emotional distress, consider consulting a mental health therapist.

• • Pursue Optimal Treatment

While managing psoriasis treatment can be stressful, effective treatment not only alleviates symptoms but also reduces stress. Achieving good control over your condition addresses the root cause of stress.

Understanding the Stress-Psoriasis Connection

The exact relationship between stress and psoriasis remains unclear, but it may involve immune system modulation. Some individuals experience their initial psoriasis flare during periods of heightened stress.

Various aspects of psoriasis can contribute to stress:

• Stigma associated with psoriasis
• Financial strain from treatment costs
• Chronic pain and discomfort
• Challenges associated with treatment
• Emotional toll of living with a chronic condition

Dermatologist in Northridge.

Combatting Eczema Flare-Ups

Empower yourself by collaborating closely with your healthcare provider to tailor treatments that suit your unique needs. Considerations such as your symptoms, age, family medical history, existing health conditions, and lifestyle choices all play vital roles in determining the most effective interventions. While many eczema treatments offer temporary relief, options like steroid creams, topical calcineurin inhibitors such as pimecrolimus (Elidel) or tacrolimus (Protopic), and over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can provide relief from itching and inflammation. For severe outbreaks, combining steroid cream with a moist bandage application can promote healing. Light therapy, whether from natural sunlight or medical-grade UV devices, may also alleviate symptoms. Oral antihistamines like diphenhydramine can provide nighttime relief, while non-drowsy options like cetirizine and fexofenadine can help manage flares. In cases of moderate to severe eczema unresponsive to topical treatments, injectable options such as dupilumab (Dupixent) or tralokinumab (Adbry), administered every few weeks, may be considered. Alternatively, upadacitinib (Rinvoq), a once-daily oral medication, can rapidly reduce itching. Close collaboration with your healthcare provider is essential to manage eczema effectively and minimize the risk of potential side effects from prolonged medication use.

Preventing Flare-Ups and Enhancing Well-Being

Take proactive steps to identify and mitigate triggers that may exacerbate eczema symptoms, as triggers can vary widely among individuals.

Combat Dryness:
If your skin becomes excessively dry, it may become rough and itchy, potentially leading to cracks that permit the entry of bacteria or allergens. Combat dryness by maintaining skin moisture, especially during dry winter months, using a humidifier in your bedroom, and applying moisturizing cream or ointment post-shower. Consider soaking in a warm bath with bath oil or colloidal oatmeal to relieve itching and moisturize the skin.

Avoid Irritants:
Identify potential irritants such as soap, cleansers, laundry detergent, and certain foods with the help of your doctor. Opt for products free from added perfumes or dyes, and keep track of any triggers that may exacerbate symptoms.

Choose Skin-Friendly Clothing:
Opt for soft, breathable clothing that keeps your skin cool and comfortable, avoiding materials like wool if they cause irritation.

Minimize Environmental Triggers:
Take steps to minimize exposure to airborne particles such as dust, smoke, pet dander, or sand, which can aggravate eczema symptoms. Maintain cleanliness in your living spaces, avoid smoking, and seek professional advice if you suspect allergies to pet dander.

Manage Stress:
Practice stress management techniques such as relaxation exercises, prioritize adequate sleep, and explore complementary therapies like aromatherapy or massage to alleviate tension and promote overall well-being.

Schedule a appointment with Dermatologist in Northridge.

Melasma, a common skin condition, manifests as darker spots due to increased activity of melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin coloration. Factors such as sun exposure, pregnancy, stress, certain medical conditions, or medication intake, like oral contraceptives, can trigger its occurrence. Individuals with darker skin may notice its effects more prominently.

While melasma might resolve spontaneously, it can persist for years in some cases. Consulting a board-certified dermatologist is advisable if it causes concern, as they can devise an appropriate treatment plan. Dermatologists often suggest the following strategies to minimize the visibility of melasma:

Prioritize daily sun protection.

Given that sunlight exacerbates melasma, consistent protection is crucial, regardless of weather conditions. Seeking shade outdoors, wearing sun-protective attire, including broad-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses, is recommended. Opt for sunscreens providing:

1. 1. • Broad-spectrum coverage
      • Water resistance
      • SPF 30 or higher

Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before outdoor activities and reapply every two hours for optimal protection.

Additionally, avoiding tanning beds and refraining from sunlamp usage is essential, as indoor tanning can exacerbate melasma and hinder treatment effectiveness.

• Shield against visible light with tinted sunscreens containing iron oxide, particularly beneficial for individuals with darker skin tones, as visible light exacerbates melasma.
• Opt for mild, fragrance-free skincare products to avoid skin irritation, which may darken melasma spots.
• Camouflage uneven skin tone with makeup while undergoing melasma treatment. Consulting a dermatologist in Northridge  for guidance on achieving natural-looking results is advisable.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Our expert, Saira George, M.D., addresses common myths about this disease and provides tips to reduce your risk.

Think you’re immune to skin cancer? It’s actually the most common cancer in the United States and largely preventable. Excessive sun or tanning bed exposure is the primary cause.

Over 2 million Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year. While most skin cancers, like basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, are highly treatable, malignant melanoma is more serious.

The good news is you can lower your risk for skin cancer by understanding your risks and taking protective measures. Let’s debunk some common skin cancer myths.

Myth 1: Dark-skinned people don’t get skin cancer.

No one is immune to skin cancer. People of all skin colors, including African-American, Hispanic, and Asian individuals, can develop skin cancer.

Although skin cancer occurs more frequently in lighter-skinned people, darker-skinned individuals often receive diagnoses at later, more advanced stages due to lack of consideration for skin cancer on darker skin until it’s too late.

Myth 2: I need sun exposure to get vitamin D.

You don’t need prolonged sun exposure to maintain adequate vitamin D levels. Daily exposure and dietary sources provide sufficient vitamin D without the increased skin cancer risks associated with excessive sun exposure.

Myth 3: Only sun exposure causes skin cancer.

Sun exposure is the primary cause of skin cancer, but other factors include UV radiation from tanning beds, family history, increasing age, a weakened immune system, and certain skin characteristics such as fair skin, freckles, and multiple or unusual moles.

Myth 4: Higher SPF sunscreen provides better protection.

SPF protection doesn’t increase proportionately with the SPF number. SPF 30 absorbs 97% of UV rays, SPF 50 absorbs slightly more at 98%, and SPF 100 absorbs 99%. Opt for at least SPF 30 and remember, sunscreen alone isn’t foolproof—limit sun exposure and wear protective clothing.

Myth 5: Sunscreen contains harmful chemicals.

Sunscreens are regulated by the FDA and considered safe and effective. While concerns about sunscreen ingredients exist, options like mineral sunscreens containing zinc or titanium oxide offer simple alternatives for those wary of chemical ingredients.

Remember, regardless of sunscreen use, cover up, avoid peak sun exposure hours, and limit time in the sun.

Myth 6: Only older people get skin cancer.

Skin cancer can affect individuals of any age. Melanoma is the most common cancer in young adults aged 25-29 and the second most common in those 15-29 years old. Early sun exposure increases skin cancer risk later in life.

Myth 7: A base tan prevents sunburns.

There’s no safe tan. UV rays damage skin cells, triggering melanin production as a protective measure. However, a tan offers minimal protection and can be easily negated by additional UV exposure, leading to sunburn and further damage.

Myth 8: Sunscreen isn’t necessary in winter or on cloudy days.

UV rays are present year-round and can penetrate clouds, necessitating sunscreen use even on overcast or cooler days.

Myth 9: Tanning beds are safe.

Tanning beds emit harmful UV rays, increasing skin cancer risk, including the deadliest form, melanoma. Avoiding tanning beds and scheduling regular skin cancer screenings are essential.

Schedule a skin cancer screening today with Dermatologist in Northridge.