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Scalp Psoriasis vs. Dandruff: Experts Explain the Difference
Psoriasis has received a lot of attention within the past few years. Kim Kardashian was among the first of many celebrities to share her experience with the skin condition; she did so on “Keeping Up With the Kardashians” in 2011, which prompted a bigger conversation around the various side effects that come with psoriasis, which can occur all over your body, including your scalp. Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease that causes inflammation in the body, board-certified physician assistant Bari Genoa, PA-C, MPAS, tells PS. “An overactive immune system speeds up skin cell growth, which then leads to a buildup of skin cells without shedding, otherwise known as plaques.” When psoriasis…
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What It’s Like Having Psoriasis: Personal Essay
According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, around 125 million people have psoriasis — that’s two to three percent of the population — including me. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder whereby the immune system is overactive and produces new skin cells at an abnormally rapid rate. New skin cells typically take about a month to form and shed, but for those with psoriasis, new cell development can happen in as little as three days and the shedding process doesn’t take place. This results in thick, scaly patches of skin that can itch and burn, as well as crack, bleed, and peel. The cause of psoriasis isn’t clear, and there is no…
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What Is Heat Rash? Dermatologists Explain the Causes
Sunburn, tan lines, and sweaty skin are all things people tend to experience throughout the summer months. While protecting your skin from the sun can help prevent the more unpleasant side effects of the warm weather, some things, like heat rashes, can have a mind of their own. Whether you’ve personally experienced heat rashes or you know someone else who has, they can be a common problem during the summer and seemingly come out of nowhere. A heat rash is characterized by stinging or prickling skin and is exacerbated by sweat. You’ll usually notice a heat rash appearing on your neck, scalp, chest, legs, and elbow crease. But what exactly…
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Wart Treatments and Types, According to Doctors
There are so many skin concerns that are easy to diagnose yet hard to treat, including warts. If you haven’t dealt with warts personally before, you’ve probably seen one on someone’s finger or hand — especially while growing up, because they’re extremely common among children. Unfortunately, while some people stop getting them as they get older, they can persist into adulthood. Once you accept the fact that you’re dealing with a wart (or a few of them), the one thing that may consume your mind is, “How do I get rid of it?” There are countless methods and tricks out there claiming to diminish warts, but it can be difficult…
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Hidradenitis Suppurativa on Black Skin: Causes and Effects
Whether it’s cystic acne or psoriasis, managing a skin condition comes with its own set of challenges. One condition in particular that often goes undiagnosed is hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), which also disproportionally impacts Black people. (In fact, a recent study indicates it’s three times more common in Black people compared to other ethnic groups.) Still, if you’ve never heard of HS – also referred to as acne inversa — you’re not alone. The condition is known to be pretty difficult to diagnose, and can take time to understand. That said, when you know what to look for and when to get professional help, you can find treatment and relief from…
