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

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...

What are Fungal Infections ? Fungal infections are caused by fungi, which are common in the environment and can live on the...

Introduction Tattoos have only gained popularity in recent years.  Nowadays, 32% of American adults have at least one tattoo.  Do 32% of...

We often think of sunscreen as a way to prevent sunburn, however, its function goes beyond just surface level. Sunscreen protects the DNA...

Not directly but it can increase the risk of skin cancer. A sunburn is defined as overexposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun. This can...

Have you ever wondered if Bermuda is the only dangerous triangle that exists? Think again! There’s another one - right on your face....

As summer temperatures rise and outdoor activities ramp up, it's important to remember that sunshine—while beautiful and beneficial in...

What Is Hyperhidrosis? Ever had your friends jokingly ask why your palms are so sweaty? Sometimes it may be a symptom of a real condition...