Image obtained from  https://advancedfunctionalmedicine.com.au/biofilms/   Why do some wounds heal quickly while others linger for months or even years? Why do they persist despite careful cleaning, changing of dressings and maybe even several courses of antibiotics? Slower healing wounds are linked to conditions like diabetes, poor circulation and ageing, where the body can’t repair itself as well.  When these underlying problems persist, wounds can become stuck in a non-hea

Cortisol is one of the primary stress hormones and plays a significant role in numerous physiological functions, including the body’s fight-or-flight response. When the brain perceives stress, the hypothalamus releases corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which subsequently stimulates the pituitary gland to secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). This hormone then signals the adrenal glands to release cortisol into the bloodstream. Skin, being the largest organ in the b

If your skin has ever suddenly become red, sensitive, tight, or just “not like itself,” you’re not alone. Many people spend months switching products, changing routines, or blaming hormones, the weather, or stress for their skin acting up. But here’s the truth dermatologists wish everyone knew: Most everyday skin frustrations come down to one quiet, often unnoticed issue — a damaged skin barrier. This isn’t a dramatic disease, it’s not dangerous, and it doesn’t mean your skin

Pimple patches, or hydrocolloid patches, have rapidly become a staple in many individual’s skin care routines. The reality behind their function may seem almost too good to be true. How can a small “sticker” that you slap onto a pimple, go to bed, and wake up with result in a flatter, calmer spot? Originally developed for wound care, hydrocolloid patches are now widely used for acne and there is growing evidence highlighting their benefits, along with some important caveats .

Harmon, R. M., Ayers, J. L., McCarthy, E. F., Kowalczyk, A. P., Green, K. J., & Simpson, C. L. (2025). Pumping the Breaks on Acantholytic Skin Disorders: Targeting Calcium Pumps, Desmosomes, and Downstream Signaling in Darier, Hailey-Hailey, and Grover Disease.  The Journal of investigative dermatology ,  145 (3), 494–508. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jid.2024.06.1289   Pathology:   Darier disease (DD), also known as dyskeratosis follicularis, is an inherited disease that is aut

Atopic dermatitis (AD), commonly referred to as eczema or atopic eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by recurrent episodes of skin inflammation. The term atopic  comes from the Greek word atopia , meaning “out of place,” referring to an abnormal immune response. AD is the most common inflammatory skin condition worldwide, affecting approximately 230 million people of all ages. It typically presents with red, dry, itchy skin and rashes, but its impact

I broke my toe recently and found myself with a huge bluish green bruise occupying the whole side of my leg. It was interesting to watch the myriad of colours that followed before the bruise disappeared. But it got me thinking - what causes this colour carousel and why does it happen exactly? What Exactly Is a Bruise? A bruise or ecchymosis happens when tiny blood vessels under the skin because of an impact or injury, aging skin and certain medications. The blood leaks into t

The evocative term " chicken skin " perfectly describes the small, rough bumps commonly found on the upper arms and thighs. Medically known as Keratosis Pilaris (KP), this condition is far more than a cosmetic concern—it is a genetic disorder of the skin's renewal process. Affecting up to 50-80% of adolescents and 40% of adults, its prevalence makes understanding its mechanisms and management essential. This guide delves into the science of KP, from its root causes to practi

What is a skin abscess? A skin abscess is a large, deep, pus-filled collection underneath the skin. It occurs when the body fights against infection. It is mostly caused by Staphylococcus aureus, also known as “staph,” and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). These bacteria can be carried by the host (individual) without any symptoms. However, as soon as there is a portal of entry into the skin, such as through a cut or hair follicle, an abscess may form. Risk

Introduction Plantar warts are noncancerous growths that develop on the bottoms of the feet. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), most commonly types 1, 2, 4, 10, 27, and 57. These warts are usually circular and flat and often have a rough, cauliflower-like surface. Small black dots may be seen on the wart—these represent tiny blood vessels. Plantar warts are common and typically not serious, though they may become painful if located on weight-bearing areas of t

In recent years, microneedling has become one of the most talked-about skin treatments in dermatology clinics. Often described as a “collagen induction therapy,” microneedling offers a safe, effective, and minimally invasive way to rejuvenate the skin — without the downtime of lasers or surgery. What Is Microneedling? Microneedling is a dermatologic procedure that involves using a device equipped with very fine, sterile needles to create tiny, controlled punctures (micro-inju

Introduction Hair loss is a significant concern that affects both men and women worldwide. While male and female pattern baldness, scientifically called androgenetic alopecia , is the most common cause, many other triggers exist, ranging from hormonal shifts in pregnancy to stress, illness, and environmental factors. Clinics worldwide, including major centers like MAXIM Hair Restoration , emphasize the importance of proper diagnosis, as women’s hair loss is often multifactori

Understanding Ingrown Toenails: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment If you’ve ever had an ingrown toenail you know firsthand that while the affected area is anatomically small, the pain feel enormous. Even the slightest touch from a shoe can make walking difficult. An ingrown toenail, also known as onychocryptosis, occurs when the side or tip of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This can lead to inflammation, pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. The big toe (or hal

Executive summary Topical finasteride is widely prescribed as a safer alternative to oral finasteride for hair regrowth. However, there is no single guideline for its dosage for desired outcomes. This report provides an overview of how to find the perfect dose of topical finasteride in treating androgenetic alopecia.  Introduction  If you are struggling with androgenic alopecia (AGA) or patterned balding, you are certainly not alone. Around 20 to 30 million people report horm

Beware of Toxins in skin-care products The use of cosmetics such as makeup, nail polish, eye shadow, and skin-care products such as moisturizers, sunscreens, anti-perspirants, etc. are a part of our daily life. But manufacturing of these products may require Intentional or in some cases unintentional inclusion of some Heavy metals. What are heavy metals and in which form are they present in cosmetics? Heavy metals are metallic elements with high atomic weight and density, com

Diagram showing the structural changes between healthy skin and skin burdened with eczema. Image courtesy of Eczema Relief - Spray-on Emollient for Eczema | Emollin® — Emollin Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a common inflammatory skin condition affecting people of all ages, characterised by red, inflamed, dry, itchy and broken skin, with many people experiencing persistent flare ups that make it difficult to manage. Unfortunately, this condition is complex and is influenced

Illustration of a comparison of skin in ( A ) healthy patients, ( B ) early HS patients, and ( C ) advanced HS patients, displaying an increase in inflammation and lesion formation in HS ( B and C ) What is Hydradenitis Suppurativa (HS): Hydradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is an inflammatory disease which causes formation of nodules, abscesses, ulcers, excessive scarring, and inflamed sinus tracts (a.k.a tunnels). Lesions are primarily found in the axillae, the groin, the inframam

There are tons of skincare trends constantly popping up on social media, many of these trends tend to be costly, and sometimes leave you wondering if they really work as well as you're being told. Skin Cycling is different, and I'll explain how! What is Skin Cycling? Skin cycling is a skincare technique that is all about rotating the use of active ingredients to maximize their benefits while minimizing irritation. How it works? To start skin cycling, you must stick to a skin

OVERVIEW     When we think of hair loss, we naturally associate it with men.  However, hair loss affects up to one-third of women as well.   More so than men, women are more likely to experience thinning rather than hair loss.  There are many underlying causes of hair loss and thinning, so let’s discuss them. TYPES OF HAIR LOSS First, let us address the different kinds of hair loss.  Some types of hair loss or thinning are permanent, and some are temporary. Androgenic alopeci

An example of mild-to-moderate eczema What is Eczema? Atopic Dermatitis (AD) , more colloquially known as Eczema , is a skin condition...