Conejo Dermatology

Scabies

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About Scabies

What is it?

A mite is the cause of this common skin condition and it is so small that you cannot see it on the skin. People get scabies when the mite burrows into the top layer of skin. When the skin reacts to the mite, an extremely itchy rash develops. Worldwide, there are millions of cases of scabies each year.
Mites travel from person to person and most people get scabies from skin-to-skin contact. Sometimes people get mites from infested items such as bedding, clothes, and furniture and can survive for about three to four days without being on a human. Anyone can get scabies, people of all ages, races, etc. People who are very clean and neat can get scabies, which is similar to head lice. It tends to spread easily in nursing homes and extended-care facilities. The good news is that a dermatologist can successfully diagnose and treat scabies and today’s treatments for scabies are quick.

What causes it?

Commonly known as the human itch mite is what causes scabies. People get scabies when the mite burrows into the skin, from either direct skin contact, or from a towel, clothing, or even furniture. You cannot get scabies from an animal that has mites, only humans get this type of scabies. Most people will not get scabies from a handshake or hug. The skin-to-skin contact must be longer for a mite to crawl from one person to another. Adults often get scabies through sexual contact.
Anyone from Children, adults, old or young, people in healthcare facilities can get this. Having a weakened immune system also increases the risk of getting scabies. The elderly and people who have a weak immune system due to diseases such as HIV/AIDS, lymphoma, or leukemia have an increased risk. People who received organ transplants also have a higher risk.
Crusted scabies is especially contagious, which is when a crust filled with mites falls off. This shed crust can provide food and protection for the mites, allowing them to live for as long as one week without human contact on surfaces. Scabies among people in nursing homes and extended-care facilities has become a common problem. Scabies can spread when people do not have any signs or symptoms.

Common treatments

The good news with this skin ailment is that it is easily treatable. Once your doctor diagnoses you, they will prescribe a treatment for you and will also recommend that anyone you have been in contact be treated as well. Even people who do not have any signs or symptoms must be treated, this is the only way to prevent new outbreaks of scabies weeks later.
The majority of people can be cured with a topical medicine that they apply to their skin. Your dermatologist will provide specific instructions to follow, and for how long you will need to continue treatment. It’s important to follow their instructions, as over-treating can cause even more irritation. There are many different prescription creams that will be considered, so put your trust in your highly trained doctor to know what will work best for your skin type.

Seborrheic Keratosis

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About Seborrheic Keratosis

What is it?

Also known as seborrheic verruca, most people will develop at least one seborrheic keratosis during a lifetime. Seborrheic keratosis is a common skin growth. It may seem worrisome because it can look like a wart, pre-cancerous skin growth (actinic keratosis), or skin cancer. Despite their appearance, they are harmless, benign, and don’t become cancerous. They are characterized as brown, black or yellow growths that grow singly or in groups and are flat or slightly elevated. Often they are mistaken for warts and generally no treatment is required unless the growth becomes irritated. However, because it looks similar in appearance to precancerous growths, your dermatologist might biopsy the tissue to confirm the diagnosis.

What causes it?

People who are prone to develop these harmless growths tend to have fair skin, and they can also be hereditary, so check with family members if you are worried. These growths also develop in people with medium to dark skin and tend to be smaller and around the eye area. If you are pregnant or had estrogen replacement therapy, people have been known to develop these. Most people develop seborrheic keratoses later in life. People who have had a lot of sun exposure tend to develop more of these. These are not contagious, and if you are getting more of them, it’s usually due to age.

Common treatments

Trust your dermatologist to tell if your skin growth is a seborrheic keratosis or skin cancer. If there is any question we will remove the growth and do a biopsy. Most seborrheic keratoses are harmless like skin tags, and might not need treatment. Talk with your dermatologist if you have any concerns, or if they are getting irritated from rubbing or clothing. A common way of treating these is with cryotherapy, your dermatologist will apply liquid nitrogen to the growth, and will tend to fall off in a few days. There are other ways as well, and depending on your skin type your dermatologist will recommend the best solution for you. After removal, it usually does not return. We offer treatment options tailored to your needs and aesthetic goals, and we’re here to address your concerns and provide support throughout the process. Call an office today and make an appointment if you are concerned you have seborrheic keratosis.

Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

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About Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

What is it?

Shingles is the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Shingles (Herpes Zoster) is a viral infection that causes a painful rash and can occur anywhere on your body but most often appears as a single stripe of blisters that wraps around either the left or right side of your torso. The virus isn’t life-threatening, but it can be very painful. Early treatment can help shorten a shingles infection and lessen the chance of complications. Vaccines can help reduce the risk of shingles.
A few days before the rash appears, you may have pain, burning, or tingling on an area of your skin where the rash will develop. Some people say they felt an “electrical sensation” on their skin before getting the rash. Some people get more blisters after the rash appears, so it can seem that the rash is spreading and developing in other areas.

What causes it?

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After you’ve had chickenpox, the virus can go dormant in nerve tissue near your spinal cord and brain. You can catch this virus again, but as an adult, it becomes the shingles. This virus is not a life-threatening condition, but it can be very painful and last for a long period of time. Vaccines can help reduce the risk of shingles and it’s severity, also early treatment can help shorten a shingles infection. Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash and then can become blisters. Although shingles can occur anywhere on your body, it most often appears as a single stripe of blisters that wraps around either the left or the right side of your torso. If you think you have shingles, call us today for an appointment, as early treatment can lessen the effects.

Common treatments

The good news about Shingles is that it’s not life-threatening and can be treated. If you think you have this virus, schedule an appointment with your dermatologist as soon as possible. Catching the virus in the first 3 days can reduce the effects significantly like pain, lessen the amount of time you have it, and lower the risk of developing other health conditions. Prescription antiviral medication may be used and will reduce the severity of the rash, and possibly the length it stays active. Common medications that are prescribed can be acyclovir, famciclovir, or valacyclovir. If you are experiencing severe pain let your doctor know, and they will either prescribe medication to reduce the inflammation and pain or suggest over-the-counter medication like Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen. Always check with your doctor first before using any medication.
The majority of people get shingles once, but it’s possible to get it again. If you are healthy and have a strong immune system, the blisters tend to clear in 7 to 10 days. Rashes tend to go away completely within 2 — 4 weeks, check with your dermatologist on how to treat the blisters so they don’t scar. The pain may last longer than the blisters but usually stops in a couple of months. Be sure to communicate with your doctor if you continue to have pain or blisters. The key to this virus is catching it as soon as you think you have it, this will reduce the effects of the virus. If you think you have shingles call an office today and make an appointment.

Skin Tags

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About Skin Tags

What are they?

Skin tags are usually harmless and painless. Skin tags, also called acrochordons, soft fibromas, or fibroepithelial polyps, are small noncancerous, or benign, skin growths. They are often flesh-colored bumps of tissue connected to the skin’s surface by a narrow stalk. The color, texture, size, and width of the base can vary. As we age, and if we are prone to skin tags, they become more common as we advance in years. It is not known what causes skin tags, but the good news is they are not cancerous and do not pose other health concerns. The main symptom is a growth on the skin, often on the neck, upper chest, underarms, and eyelids. They may become irritated from rubbing against clothing. Most skin tags don’t require treatment. If a skin tag is irritated or its appearance is bothersome, a doctor can remove it.

What causes them?

Most skin tags don’t cause symptoms unless they are repeatedly irritated by rubbing against jewelry, clothing, or other items. The tags are harmless, but they won’t go away without treatment. A reason for treatment may include irritation or if you don’t like the way the skin tag looks. Friction can also play a role in the development of skin tags. Frequently, they develop on the neck, underarms, and eyelids, as well as within body folds, such as under the breasts or in the groin area. In some cases, skin tags seem to be associated with obesity, and genetic factors also appear to play a role. Unfortunately, there’s no way to minimize the risk of developing skin tags.

Common treatments

If you have skin tags that are irritated, or you just don’t like where they have developed, we are here to help. Skin tags can be removed in several ways, they can be cut off with scissors or excision, but minor bleeding could occur. Freezing or burning, the skin tag may require a short time to fall off, and these procedures have a risk of skin discoloration, darkening, or lightening, following the procedure. Sometimes, repeat treatments are necessary if the tag doesn’t fall off or it grows back, or if new tags grow in other areas. If you are concerned about your skin tags ask your dermatologist about how to treat your skin. Our goal is that you look your best, so make an appointment today if you have skin tags and want to remove them.

Pityriasis Rosea

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About Pityriasis Rosea

What is it?

Pityriasis rosea is a common skin disease and appears as a rash that can last from several weeks to several months. It most often develops in the spring and the fall, is more prevalent in adolescents or young adults, and is uncommon in those over 60. Usually, there are no permanent marks as a result of this disease, although some darker-skinned persons may develop long-lasting flat brown spots.
The skin rash follows a very distinctive pattern and varies from person to person. In most cases, a single, isolated oval scaly patch (the “herald patch”) appears on the body, particularly the upper part of the body, but again every individual reacts differently. This is often mistaken for ringworm or eczema. More pink patches can occur on different parts of the body, but rarely on the face.

What causes it?

There is no proven cause for this skin disease. It’s not caused by a fungus or bacterial infection or any known type of allergic reaction and is not a sign of any type of internal disease. It is neither contagious nor sexually transmitted, so there is no reason to avoid close or intimate contact when someone has it If you suspect that you might have this skin disease, it’s best to make an appointment with your dermatologist who will be able to diagnose your condition upon an examination.
It is thought that it may be caused by a virus since the rash resembles certain viral illnesses, and occasionally a person feels slightly ill for a short while just before the rash appears. Pityriasis rosea does not seem to spread from person to person and it usually occurs only once in a lifetime.

Common treatments

Your dermatologist will be able to diagnose it by sight. For confirmation, they may order a blood test, a scraping, or a biopsy. The only reason for tests is to rule out other types of skin problems, like eczema, ringworm, or psoriasis. Usually, pityriasis rosea clears up in a few weeks. If you are experiencing itching, your doctor may recommend topical medications such as calamine lotion, an antihistamine, or even a steroid cream.
All medications will depend on your diagnosis, which is why is important to book your appointment today with your dermatologist so that you will be on your road to recovery soon.

Poison Ivy

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About Poison Ivy

What is it?

Poison ivy is a common plant from the Toxicodendron species of plants. If you’ve ever had poison ivy, you know the symptoms, which can include continuous itching, skin irritation, and redness and inflammation. Most people know they shouldn’t scratch the rash, but the incessant itching makes it difficult to stop. Although scratching doesn’t cause the rash to spread, it can prolong the symptoms, and delay healing. and even cause a secondary infection.

What causes it?

Coming into contact with poison ivy – as well as its relatives poison oak or poison sumac – results is a common rash called Toxicodendron dermatitis, which is caused by an oil in the plant. Even though the rash itself isn’t contagious, you can get poison ivy from touching anything else that has touched the plant, such as a toy, pet, or clothing.

Common treatments

Over-the-counter medications are usually enough to contain and relieve the itching and irritation caused by poison ivy, including calamine lotion, antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl), cool showers, a baking soda/water mixture for the skin, or OTC topical corticosteroids. Poison ivy symptoms usually run their course in about 2-3 weeks. although we recommend seeing a dermatologist before then. However, if the rash is located near your mouth, throat, eyes, or groin, we suggest seeing a dermatologist as soon as possible, as you may need a prescription oral corticosteroid or even an injection.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

We understand how uncomfortable poison ivy can be, as the incessant itching can make it hard to concentrate on anything else. As your neighborhood skin experts, our staff of dermatologic specialists has the experience and knowledge to help you deal with this troublesome condition. Contact an office today if you notice symptoms of poison ivy so that we can help you manage this troublesome condition.

Rashes

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About Rashes

What are they?

The term “rash” covers a wide range of skin conditions, usually referring to changes in the skin that manifest as bumps, blisters, or red patches. Most of these are harmless, but they can be indications of other skin problems or health issues. Common types of rashes include chronic skin problems, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, bacterial infections, fungal infections, and viral infections.

What causes them?

There are many reasons why you could develop a rash, and some of the most common factors include the following: stress, allergies, genetics, food or drink, various infections, certain medications, insect bites or stings, and sun or heat exposure. If you have a rash that does not disappear after 1-2 weeks, be sure to schedule an appointment to discuss your condition, receive a proper diagnosis, and learn more about your available treatment options.

Common treatments

Skin rash treatments vary widely depending on the type, causes, and symptoms. The skin rash experts at West Dermatology have the knowledge and experience needed to examine you visually and determine exactly the type of rash you have. Once your rash have been identified, we’ll determine a proper treatment for your particular rash. Rash treatments offered at our center include moisturizing lotions and/or creams, topical anti-itch medications, oral antihistamines, topical anti-fungal medications, and light therapy.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

Skin rashes can be troublesome, as they not only itch but can also make you self-conscious about your appearance. As your neighborhood skin expert, West Dermatology has the experience and knowledge necessary to help you manage this condition. Contact an office today if you notice a rash that isn’t being controlled easily so that we can address your particular skin issue

Rosacea

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About Rosacea

What is it?

Rosacea is characterized by persistent skin redness, the prominence of blood vessels, blotchiness, and reddish bumps or pimples on the face; it’s as if you have the inclination to blush or flush quickly and without reason. In particular, it commonly develops in the cheeks, chin, nose, forehead, ears, and neck.

What causes it?

The exact causes of rosacea are unknown, although genetics, problem blood vessels, and irregular immune system function are thought to contribute. There are, however, known common triggers that you should avoid, such as sun exposure, alcohol, spicy foods, and hot liquids.

Common treatments

There is no outright “cure” for rosacea and it is often unpredictable; even if you avoid triggers and follow a treatment plan that eliminates the symptoms, it can return without warning. However, the skin experts at our dermatology practice can help you manage the condition by minimizing symptoms as much as possible. For milder cases, topical medications can reduce redness while oral medications can shrink bumps and pimples. For more severe symptoms, laser or IPL (intense pulsed light) therapy is effective for improving blood vessels and/or reducing blushing and flushing.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

We understand the effects that rosacea can have on you, both physically and psychologically, due to characteristics that make you feel self-conscious. As your neighborhood skin experts, we have the experience and knowledge to provide support and encouragement as well as answer questions you may have about this bothersome skin issue. Because you always have a say in your treatment, we provide customized solutions to meet your needs and goals. We’re beside you every step of the way, addressing your concerns with advice and after-care guidance.
Contact an office today if you notice rosacea characteristics so that we can help you combat this condition.

Lichen Planus

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About Lichen Planus

What is it?

Many people get lichen planus. This disease can develop in one or several parts of the body. It can appear on the skin or inside the mouth. Sometimes, it appears in both places. Lichen planus can even change the way a person’s fingernails or toenails look. It also can appear on the genitals or a person’s scalp.
Lichen planus is not contagious. You cannot get this disease from someone else, and you cannot give it to anyone. Lichen planus is not a type of cancer.

What causes it?

Anyone can get lichen planus. It is most common in middle-aged adults. Women get lichen planus in their mouths more often than men do. What causes most cases of lichen planus remains unclear.
Lichen planus often causes bumps that are shiny, firm, and reddish purple on the skin. Sometimes the bumps have tiny white lines running through them, these lines are called Wickham’s striae.
You can get a few or many bumps, which can appear on different parts of the body. The most common places for these bumps to appear are the wrists, lower back, and ankles, but they can appear anywhere on the skin, including the genitals.
On the legs, the bumps tend to be darker, new bumps may appear as older bumps clear. When lichen planus develops on the skin, a person can have patches of rough, scaly skin, and are most common on the shins and around the ankles. The bumps can itch, even blister at times, and can be painful.
A simple rash might look like lichen planus, which is why it’s always best to schedule an appointment with your dermatologist if you think you might have this.

Common treatments

A dermatologist often can tell whether you have lichen planus by looking at your skin, nails, and mouth. To make sure that you have lichen planus, your dermatologist may do a skin biopsy. There are many different ways to treat this, and your doctor will walk you through what these are, based on your diagnosis. Options can be as simple as taking an antihistamine, a topical ointment, or prednisone in pill form. All treatments depend on your diagnosis, so schedule an appointment today if you are concerned that you have lichen planus.

Lupus

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About Lupus

What is it?

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can last weeks, months, or even years. It affects not only your skin but also your joints and organs – and frequently all three at the same time. There are two common types of lupus: systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which can affect your joints, organs, and skin, and discoid lupus, which is characterized by skin rash flare-ups on your face, neck, and scalp. The signs and symptoms of lupus are unpredictable and vary from person to person, but they commonly include recurring fevers, debilitating fatigue, skin rashes (particularly spreading across your nose and cheeks as well as under the eyes, known as “butterfly rash”), hair loss, skin lesions, swollen joints, thyroid issues, and heartburn, acid indigestion, and other GI tract issues.

What causes it?

Although the exact cause of lupus is not clear, there is strong evidence that hormones and genetics play a major role in the development of this condition. Environmental factors are also believed to contribute, including, viruses, stress, fatigue, UV rays, smoking, injury, antibiotics, and dust and dirt.

Common treatments

There is no known cure for lupus, therefore our goal is to manage your condition by preventing flare-ups, reducing pain and swelling, and mitigating the potential damage to your organs, joints, and other areas that can be affected by this condition. Our dermatologists and staff work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that could include corticosteroids as well as anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant medications. You can rely on us to be an integral part of your support in managing this disorder.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

We know that lupus can have a significant impact on you, both physically and emotionally. As your community skin specialists, we’re here to provide encouragement and answer questions you may have about this potentially dangerous condition. We have skilled dermatologic experts with the knowledge and experience to advise you of treatment options that can be tailored to meet your needs. We’ll also be by your side to address your concerns as well as provide advice and support. Get in touch with us today if you notice symptoms of lupus so that we can help you manage this unpredictable condition.