skin_disease.id,skin_disease.ts,skin_disease.title,skin_disease.description,skin_disease.alt
151,"2018-02-05 21:16:04","5 Types of Skin Fungus","It's not everyone's favorite subject -- and understandably so. For most people, developing an unsightly skin fungus may be pretty embarrassing. But such infections are actually very common. For instance, it's estimated that at any one time in the United States, at least one in five people have athlete's food, a particular type of skin fungus [source: Wallace]. Still, for many, the sight of -- or mere idea of -- a fungus living in one's skin is repulsive. But if you can distance yourself from the disgust, fungus is actually pretty fascinating. Once thought to be plants (mushrooms are still sorted among vegetables in the supermarket, after all), fungi's distinct cell walls and lack of chlorophyll distinguish them today as their own kingdom consisting of at least 80,000 species. Most of the types of fungus we'll discuss are molds known as dermatophytes. These dermatophytes like to set up camp on skin because they feast on keratin, a strong, fibrous protein that makes up much of your skin (as well as nails and hair, where fungus can also thrive). One of the most important things to keep in mind is that, besides keratin, fungus loves two things: warmth and moisture. This is why it so often holes up on sweaty feet. Skin fungus is contagious and can spread most commonly among people, but you can also get it from animals and clothes and fabrics (and even soil). We'll go through some of the common types of skin fungus and also look at signs of getting them and how to treat them.","Skin Problems Image Gallery The fungus that causes athlete's foot is one of the most common. See more skin problem pictures."
152,"2018-02-05 21:16:08","Can you spread herpes when you don't have a cold sore?","It's not a subject mentioned real often on The Hills or American Idol, but it's a lot more relevant to our daily lives than those important shows: Herpes reportedly affects up to 80 percent of the U.S. population [source: HerpesOnline]. Yes, four out of five people have the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which causes those cold-sore blisters you sometimes see around people's lips. That's oral herpes, almost always caused HSV-1 and contracted in childhood. HSV-1 spreads like wildfire among kids -- it's passed by the briefest skin-to-skin contact, as simple as one HSV-carrying child touching a sore and then another kid in class. Keep Reading Below","Skin Problems Image Gallery Four out of five people have the herpes simplex virus. See more pictures of skin problems."
153,"2018-02-05 21:16:11","What is epidermolysis bullosa?","Skin is a pretty amazing organ. It's in a constant state of death and rebirth as new skin cells (called keratinocytes) are born and replace the dead cells that slough off. Before they're lost, dead skin cells serve as the barrier that protects the younger skin and internal organs beneath from exposure to the elements, radiation from the sun and infection from bacteria. Human skin also has a defense system that goes to work when its integrity gets compromised by injuries from friction or heat. You see this system in action every time a blister forms on your skin. Keep Reading Below","While most people can put up with an occasional blister from footwear, it's a bad gamble for a person with EB. See more pictures of skin problems."
154,"2018-02-05 21:16:14","Can you get herpes from water fountains or toilet seats?","Few schoolyard rumors have stronger legs than those involving sexually transmitted infections (STI). Giggly adolescents trade misinformation on the playground as questions about sex rule the hallways, and the gym teacher begins the painful annual metamorphosis into a sex-ed instructor. One of the longest-standing rumors about STI transmission is that people can get them by drinking from water fountains and sitting on toilet seats. As people learn more about HIV and AIDS, they've figured out that this really isn't possible. But one STI -- herpes -- still remains mysterious to a great many people. As a result, the idea that a person can contract herpes from drinking fountains and toilet seats remains a common notion. But is it an incorrect notion? Keep Reading Below","Personal Hygiene Image Gallery Is this the site of a herpes infection? What about toilet seats? See more personal hygiene pictures."
155,"2018-02-05 21:16:18","Skin Lightening for Acne Scars: Fast Facts","Here are some helpful links: Why does acne cause dark spots on the skin?Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: Out, Out, Damned Spot! Keep Reading Below",
156,"2018-02-05 21:16:21","Skin Cells: Fast Facts","Here are some helpful links: PlantsHousehold CleanersLaundry DetergentsSunscreenBugs and Bug RepellentsHeatShaving and Hair RemovalCosmeticsSoapClothing Keep Reading Below",
157,"2018-02-05 21:16:23","Why does acne cause dark spots on your skin?","When it comes to acne, some of us are unluckier than others. While most people have a surge in acne during adolescence that corresponds to a surge in hormones, some continue battling acne outbreaks well into middle age. Additionally, not all acne outbreaks are equal -- for some people, it never worsens beyond small blemishes that react well to treatment, but for others, acne outbreaks can be severe and cover much of the face, neck, shoulders and back. What causes acne, anyway? Your skin has millions and millions of hair follicles. Inside each of these hair follicles is a tiny gland called the sebaceous gland. This produces the skin's natural oil, sebum. Normally, sebum rises up out of the hair follicle, collecting dead skin cells along the way and depositing them on the surface of the skin. The mix of oil and dead skin cells forms a healthy, protective coating that helps keep your skin watertight and protects against external viruses, pollution and other unwanted substances. Keep Reading Below","Spots and the spots they leave behind are no fun for anyone. See more pictures of skin problems."
158,"2018-02-05 21:16:24","Why can colloidal silver turn your skin blue?","Stan Jones isn't your average politician from Montana. He has a rare condition called argyria -- his skin is grayish-blue. He developed argyria after drinking too much colloidal silver to ward off infectious disease, because he feared there would be an antibiotics shortage [source: BBC News]. Jones's case isn't unique. A few other people who have consumed silver have also developed the condition. When used topically, silver has antibacterial properties that can be medically useful. A coating of silver nanoparticles on a wound dressing, for example, creates a barrier that germs can't cross, reducing the chance of infection significantly [source: California Nanoscience Institute]. Colloidal silver is a suspension of tiny particles of silver in water. Some people believe that drinking a colloidal silver solution will provide protection against infectious diseases [source: Woolston]. However, there's no scientific proof that drinking colloidal silver has any beneficial effects. That doesn't mean there are no benefits -- it just means there hasn't been enough serious research to document the medicinal value of colloidal silver. Keep Reading Below","Skin Problems Image Gallery Stan Jones. See more skin problem pictures"
159,"2018-02-05 21:16:31","Skin Parasites","You're lying in bed at night when you suddenly feel an itch on your leg. Without giving it much thought, you reach down and scratch. No big deal, right? But in the morning, your small itchy spot has turned into an angry-looking rash, and it's even itchier. Is it just some weird allergic reaction, or could it have come from a parasite? Skin parasites are generally small insects, worms or other bugs that feed on blood or other bodily material. These creepy-crawlies usually fall into one of two categories: external or internal. External parasites tend not to hang around for very long. Most of them either jump on and off, or they leave once they've had their fill. Other parasites try to stick around for longer periods of time. Internal skin parasites burrow under the skin to feed, lay their eggs and make a temporary home for themselves. Keep Reading Below","Is it just a simple itch or something much worse…like a skin parasite? See more pictures of skin problems."
160,"2018-02-05 21:16:35","Image Gallery: Skin Problems",,""" title="
161,"2018-02-05 21:16:39","What is jock itch?","Your groin is a popular spot for fungi to mingle. The fungi are called dermatophytes, and they're always on your skin. In those dark, damp conditions that sometimes occur ""down there,"" dermatophytes can also multiply and spread. Make it dark and damp enough, and these fungi can grow out of control. If you add sweat and friction to the mix, those points-of-contact and skin folds in your leg and groin area become agitated, and the skin breaks. Bacteria get into the wound, inflaming the skin. The bacteria then multiply under the dank conditions that sometimes occur in your groin area. Keep Reading Below","Skin Problems Image Gallery It may not be polite, but if you've got a case of jock itch, you might not be able to help it. See more pictures of skin problems."
162,"2018-02-05 21:16:45","What's the best way to get rid of warts?","You may not get a wart from kissing a frog in hopes it turns into a prince (or princess), but you can get warts from direct contact with that prince or princess. Warts are caused by a contagious virus -- human papillomavirus (HPV). There are around 60 strains of HPV, only some of which cause the excessive skin cell growth that results in warts. Warts normally spread person-to-person through contact when there's a break in the skin. Kids, because of their less developed immune systems, get warts more often than adults (but their warts tend to go away, whereas adults' stick around). Keep Reading Below","You won't contract warts from kissing a frog, but it's easy to get them from other humans."
163,"2018-02-05 21:16:52","5 Ways to Prevent Skin Cancer","The sun is a wonderful thing: It offers energy, light, a boost to mental health, and Vitamin D. It's the key to much of life on Earth. But sunlight is also one of the chief causes of skin cancer. What's in sunlight that's potentially dangerous? It's that pesky, invisible specter called ultraviolet light. No cancer is more common in the United States than skin cancer. There are more than 1 million cases of skin cancer diagnosed annually [source: American Cancer Society]. And there are many types of cancer that affect the skin -- more than 200 [source: California Department of Public Health]. Sunlight isn't the only culprit -- there are several risk factors that could increase your likelihood of developing skin cancer, including the following: Regularly working outside (such as for a job)Light features (red or blond hair, pale skin, blue or green eyes, freckles)Sensitive or easily burned skinPreponderance of molesFamily history of skin cancerUsing tanning beds or salons Among the various types of skin cancer, melanoma is the third most prevalent type. As a malignant cancer, it's very dangerous: In 2005, 8,345 Americans died of melanoma [source: CDC]. About 55,000 people get malignant melanoma in the United States each year [source: California Department of Public Health]. The two other most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, both of which can be cured if found early but may lead to scarring or other complications. In this article, we're going to take a look at what you can do on a regular basis to boost your protection from skin cancer. We'll also learn some facts about skin cancer treatment and the value of Vitamin D.","Sun protection isn't just for beach trips. You should wear sunscreen and protective clothing every day. See more beautiful skin pictures."
164,"2018-02-05 21:16:55","10 Common Skin Irritants","Chances are you've experienced a skin irritation at some point in your life. You may have had anything from a mild redness to frustrating swelling and itching to a severe case of blisters or sores. Your skin is your body's largest organ and its primary layer of defense, so it often takes the first blow against irritants in the world around you. Dermatitis is the term used to describe a wide range of skin inflammation. Some categories of dermatitis are a result of internal conditions, and some chemical process in the body can trigger them. For example, eczema is usually hereditary, and outbreaks can be triggered by stress, allergies or asthma. Contact dermatitis, though, is a result of your skin's contact with some external irritant that creates an allergic reaction. Because you come in contact with so many things on a day-to-day basis, it's sometimes hard to discover the exact cause of a rash or itch. You may have mild chafing from the wind or your clothes, or a case of contact dermatitis from household chemicals, poison ivy and even sunscreen. This article describes 10 common skin irritants, listed in no particular order, and what you can do to keep your skin protected. No matter what skin irritation you have, you can treat the symptoms with lotions and over-the-counter medicated skin creams. If the irritation persists or worsens, you should see a health professional for a more precise diagnosis and treatment.","Irritated skin can itch, burn and frustrate your daily routine. Be aware of potential skin irritants around you. See more pictures of skin problems."
165,"2018-02-05 21:17:01","Can your sweat be different colors?","There are some things we take as simple, comforting truths. When we drop a pencil, it will fall down instead of up. In the evening, the sun will set, and in the morning, it will rise. And when we sweat, it will come out of our pores as a clear liquid. These are things we can depend on, things we can take solace in knowing we can predict. Which is why one can imagine how disconcerting it must have been for a 26-year-old nurse when she began excreting red sweat in the late 1990s. After five months of concern and fighting stubborn stains, the woman sought medical attention. Physicians harvested sweat from her sebum (the natural oils that waterproof and moisturize our skin and hair) using ether to separate the sweat from the rest of the materials. They compared it to the nurse's stained clothing and found that the woman had a case of chromhidrosis. Keep Reading Below","OK, so this isn't a photo of sweat excreted from a person with chromhidrosis, but you get the idea. See more pictures of skin problems."
166,"2018-02-05 21:17:05","Are chicken pox and shingles the same thing?","Almost everyone is familiar with chickenpox -- before the introduction of the chickenpox vaccine, 90 percent of U.S. children had the disease by age 10 [source: Penn State]. You may recall the red bumps your mom told you not to pick, the calamine lotion that gave you little relief from the itching, and the inevitable scar left behind by that blister you just couldn't leave alone. And if you've had chickenpox, then the virus that caused that week of discomfort is still with you. It remains in your body to this day, and it's the same virus that causes shingles. Chickenpox and shingles aren't the same disease, but the same virus causes them: Varicella zoster [source: Mayo Clinic]. While it's rare for an adult to get chickenpox, both children and adults can get shingles -- but only if they've already had chickenpox. The varicella zoster virus that lives in your nervous system after you've had chickenpox can reactivate under certain circumstances, such as emotional stress, cancer or immune deficiency, and this causes shingles. Keep Reading Below","The same virus that causes chickenpox also causes shingles. See more pictures of skin problems."
167,"2018-02-05 21:17:08","Are new moles always a sign of cancer?","A new mole doesn't necessarily mean you have cancer -- in fact, people often develop new moles early in life. Of course, that doesn't mean that you shouldn't keep an eye out for them. It's always better to be safe than sorry, so if you think you have a cancerous mole, you should get it checked by a doctor right away. Although a new mole doesn't always mean cancer, the mole might be malignant and your chances of beating cancer increase if you catch it early [source: American Cancer Society]. You're also more likely to develop skin cancer if you already have a lot of moles or freckles, so check yourself regularly for any new moles that look different. Cancerous moles tend to be oddly colored and shaped [source: Rutherford]. If you find a mole on your body that's markedly different in color than your normal skin tone and has ragged edges, you should have it examined as soon as possible. Keep Reading Below","Close up of melanoma mole on woman's skin. See more pictures of skin problems."
168,"2018-02-05 21:17:13","Athletes Foot Overview","It feels like something out of a scary movie. Your toes begin to itch. You feel something burning in your shoes. You scratch, but it doesn't help. Soon, you notice blisters. The skin between your toes starts to crack. You find that the soles of your feet are starting to peel. You apply lotion, but nothing seems to help. You start to think your toenails are changing color, and you eventually suspect that the itchy, burning feeling is spreading to other parts of your body. What is happening to you? Are you being taken over by an alien life form? The answer is likely much simpler. You have athlete's foot, known to your doctor as Tinea pedis. And though it might feel like you're being attacked by an invader from outer space, what you're experiencing is actually a very common infection that can be caused by a number of persistent -- though most definitely earthbound -- critters. Keep Reading Below","Skin Problems Image Gallery Athlete's foot is a common foot fungus that seems to strike some people more than others. See more pictures of skin problems."
169,"2018-02-05 21:17:18","Bacterial Skin Infections","Although bacteria can often touch or live on the skin without causing an infection, the risk of getting a bacterial skin infection becomes much higher when the skin is broken. People who have certain medical conditions, including diabetes, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or skin damage from sunburn, are also more likely to be at risk. Many different types of bacterial infections can enter through the skin, but a few are more frequent than others. Cellulitis, an infection beneath the skin's surface, normally happens after a break in the skin, such as a surgical incision, cut, wound or insect bite [source: Stulberg]. Those at risk for cellulitis include people who have weak immune systems or who handle fish, meat, poultry or soil without wearing gloves [source: WebMD]. Keep Reading Below","Bacteria that touch your skin are more likely to infect you if your skin is broken. See more pictures of skin problems."
170,"2018-02-05 21:17:22","Bedsores: Causes and Treatments","For many people, bed rest is a welcome respite when recovering from a cold, the flu or a minor injury or illness. For people who are bedridden because of major illnesses, disability or old age, however, extended hours in bed can be a source of real pain. Prolonged bed rest can cause injury to skin and tissue on various parts of the body, a condition commonly known as bedsores. A bedsore, also known as a pressure ulcer or decubitus ulcer, is an area of skin that's become damaged from constant pressure and prolonged lack of movement. Constant pressure decreases blood flow to the area, which causes skin cells to die and the skin itself to break down. The damaged area eventually becomes an open wound, causing further damage and possible infection to muscle and bone tissue below [source: Zeller]. Keep Reading Below","Bedsores are areas of damaged skin and tissue that develop when sustained pressure cuts off circulation to parts of your body. People on bed rest or who use wheelchairs regularly are especially at risk. See more pictures of skin problems."
171,"2018-02-05 21:17:28","Cold Sores: Causes and Treatments","It can happen at the worst possible times. You're stressed out about a speech you have to give at work, or maybe you're nervous about a first date, and you start to feel a prickling and burning in your lip. Soon, a hard bump that feels like a pimple forms under the skin's surface. But you know this isn't a zit; you're getting a cold sore. You're not alone. Fifteen to 30 percent of the population suffers from cold sores, or fever blisters [source: McKinley]. Soon after those first symptoms show up, red blisters appear on or around the lips. After a few days, the painful blisters break, release a clear fluid and a scab forms. Cold sore sufferers may have to deal with fever, sore throat and mouth, or swollen lymph nodes in the neck [source: Web MD]. Keep Reading Below","Cold sore outbreaks can be triggered by stress. See more pictures of skin problems."
172,"2018-02-05 21:17:29","Common Warts Overview","You can relax: That old story about getting warts from kissing a frog might just be one of the oldest examples of an urban legend. Your kissing habits have nothing to do with wart formation. You can't get warts from handling a toad, either. Let's take a look at what common warts are, where they come from and why they're so hard to get rid of. A common wart is a noncancerous growth. Common warts are typically found on the hand -- on the back of the hand, around fingernails and on the fingers. They can also be found on elbows and knees. These warts are hard, round bumps with surfaces that feel rough to the touch. Their size is usually between 0.08 and 0.39 inches (between 2 and 10 millimeters) [source: Merck]. They might be the same color as your skin, or they might be white, grayish-brown, pink or tan. You might see black dots when you look at a common wart. These seedlike black dots lend another name to common warts: seed warts [source: American Academy of Dermatology]. Keep Reading Below","You'll want to avoid one of these eyesores at all costs. See more pictures of skin problems."
173,"2018-02-05 21:17:32","Contact Dermatitis","If you have an inflamed, itchy, red rash that burns, it could be contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis (a type of eczema) is usually a rash caused when someone rubs against plants such as poison ivy or uses products with ingredients containing possible allergens, such as certain laundry detergents or soaps, cleaning chemicals or latex gloves. There are two categories of contact dermatitis -- irritant and allergic. Irritant contact dermatitis happens when a chemical or other harsh substance damages the upper layer, or epidermis, of the skin, resulting in burns, blisters and skin ulcers. Almost any substance or environmental element can cause irritant contact dermatitis over a long enough period of time for people who have very sensitive skin -- even dry or warm air and humidity can cause it [source: Hogan]. Irritant contact dermatitis could be life threatening if the condition is untreated and leads to serious infection. Keep Reading Below","Poison ivy is a common source of contact dermatitis. Rashes, like the one pictured here, result from an allergic reaction to the plant. See more pictures of skin problems."
174,"2018-02-05 21:17:34","Eczema Basics","You haven't been near poison ivy in weeks, you aren't allergic to latex and you don't have allergies that give you hives -- at least, you don't think you do. So what's that red patch of itchy dry skin? It could be a type of eczema. An estimated 15 million Americans are affected by it [source: EczemaNet]. The name eczema is actually an all-encompassing title for a range of skin conditions that produce the same itching and redness, the most common of which is called atopic dermatitis (or atopic eczema). Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema found in infants and children under the age of two. In fact, about 10 to 20 percent of infants have eczema [source: UVA Health System]. The disease occurs less frequently in adults, but they can still be affected through periodical flare-ups that are triggered by different allergic reactions or reactions to skin irritants. Keep Reading Below","Could this red itchy rash be eczema? See more pictures of skin problems."
175,"2018-02-05 21:17:34","Ehlers Danlos Syndrome Overview","The human body is made up of many kinds of tissue that serve important daily functions. Tissues hold the body together, protect the body's insides, enable movement and carry electrical messages from the brain to the rest of the body. Everything the body does depends on its tissues. So what happens when connective tissues, including bones and inner layers of skin, don't work the way they should? Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, or EDS, is an inherited genetic disorder that affects the body's connective tissues and prevents the body from functioning in the way that it should. Symptoms of EDS include: Keep Reading Below","One sign of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is having joints that can extend past the normal range of motion. See more pictures of skin problems."
176,"2018-02-05 21:17:41","Filiform Warts Overview","People spend a great deal of time looking at one another's faces. When they talk, they look one another in the eyes. When they share funny stories, they search for smiles and other signs of amusement. When they communicate unpleasant news, they watch for an expression of anger or sadness. Because a person's face draws so much attention, a small wart on the face can be cause for great concern. Warts are benign growths of skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) [source: FamilyDoctor]. When HPV enters the top layer of skin, often through a cut or another opening, the virus causes the skin cells to grow rapidly. The resulting growth is a wart. Warts can appear anywhere, on anyone, at any age. Most often, warts appear during childhood and are less common among elderly people. Keep Reading Below","We convey so many things with our faces. Don't you want yours to be wart-free? See more pictures of skin problems."
177,"2018-02-05 21:17:47","Flat Warts Overview","These tiny, smooth spots on your skin are usually skin-colored -- pink, yellow or even light brown -- and difficult to see. They most often appear on your face, neck or legs. These spots may form in groups, with as many as one hundred or more in one area. Sometimes, they occur in a line or a circle. What we're talking about is flat warts. Unlike common warts, which have a dome-shaped appearance, flat warts are usually flush with the skin's surface. They're smooth, while common warts are often rough. Flat warts tend to be smaller than other types of warts -- as small as 0.07 inches (0.2 centimeters) and often not larger than 0.39 inches (1 centimeter) [source: Intelihealth]. Unlike plantar warts, which grow on the bottom of feet, flat warts typically appear on men's and children's faces or on women's legs. In fact, they're much more commonly found on children and are sometimes called juvenile warts [source: KidsHealth]. Keep Reading Below","Flat warts aren't as big as common warts, but they're still a cosmetic problem. See more pictures of skin problems."
178,"2018-02-05 21:17:53","Heat Rash Overview","Most people love being outside when the weather is hot. We have barbecues, go to the beach, ride our bikes and take long walks. But all this outdoor activity puts us at a greater risk for developing a condition known as heat rash -- a skin irritation caused by blocked sweat ducts. Heat rash usually develops in hot or humid weather, when people overheat and sweat profusely. It appears as a patch of small pink or red bumps on the skin and most commonly occurs on areas of the body covered by clothing. As people perspire, sweat ducts on the skin can become blocked. Clothing can uncomfortably rub against the skin, causing friction and irritation. Heat rash is most common in infants [source: FamilyDoctor]. It tends to happen when parents overdress their children, particularly in hot weather. People can avoid heat rash by dressing in lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and staying out of the sun on particularly hot and humid days. Parents can prevent their children from getting heat rash by not over-dressing them. Children should be dressed in clothes similar to what the parents would find comfortable for a hot day. Keep Reading Below","Heat rash is typically caused by blocked sweat ducts. See more pictures of skin problems."
179,"2018-02-05 21:17:56","Hives Overview","Having hives can make you feel like you've been the all-you-can-eat buffet for a group of really hungry mosquitoes. And, as if having really itchy welts isn't bad enough, hives can burn and sting. Just what makes these nasty bumps appear? Hives, also referred to as ""urticaria,"" can be acute or chronic. If you have hives that last less than six weeks, they are acute; if they last more than six weeks, they are chronic. In general, acute hives are easier to treat because they tend to have common causes. Chronic hives, which are less common than acute hives, are trickier to identify and treat [source: American Academy of Dermatology]. Keep Reading Below","What could have caused the hives on this woman's face? See more pictures of skin problems."
180,"2018-02-05 21:17:59","Impetigo Overview","Do you have an itch that you can't quite scratch? Or an itch that seems to spread whenever you scratch it? If so, you may have impetigo, a bacterial skin infection characterized by red sores, blisters and an itchy rash. Impetigo often occurs in infants and children whose developing immune systems make them more vulnerable to infection, but adults can also develop it. And while impetigo generally appears around the nose and mouth, it can occur anywhere skin has been damaged or broken, such as by a cut, scrape or mosquito bite [source: Cronan]. There are many types of impetigo, but all of them are highly contagious and cause blisters that ooze pus, which dries to form a honey-colored crust. Impetigo contagiosa, the most common type, often begins as a red spot on the face that ruptures and scabs over. Bullous impetigo affects mostly young children and appears as blisters on the arms, legs and torso. Ecthyma is the most serious and painful type of impetigo because the infection penetrates deep into the skin and causes ulcers that may scar [source: Mayo Clinic]. However, most cases of impetigo, while unpleasant, aren't painful and won't produce scars. Keep Reading Below","Impetigo is a superficial skin infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. See more pictures of skin problems."
181,"2018-02-05 21:18:01","Ingrown Hair Basics","You shave, you moisturize and you use expensive skin care products, but after all these daily rituals, you still don't have the baby-smooth skin you desire. Despite all your time and trouble, you're left with tiny, red bumps on your skin: ingrown hairs. Ingrown hairs are exactly what they sound like. They're hairs that grow out of the hair follicle and then curl around and grow back in. In many cases, the hairs don't even grow entirely out of the skin. They simply grow sideways and become trapped in the skin, causing irritation [source: Jay]. Keep Reading Below","Ingrown hairs are often called "razor bumps" because they frequently appear after shaving. See more pictures of skin problems."
182,"2018-02-05 21:18:04","Jaundice Overview","Donovan made being ""mellow yellow"" sound lovely in his 1966 classic tune of the same name, but literally turning yellow from jaundice isn't nice at all. Although it isn't technically a disease, jaundice is a medical condition widely known for its ability to turn the skin and eyes yellow. This coloring is caused by an excess of the pigment bilirubin, which is created by the breakdown of old red blood cells. Keep Reading Below","Premature baby in intensive care unit,UV light treatment of jaundice. See more pictures of skin problems."
183,"2018-02-05 21:18:07","Melasma Overview","If you ever suddenly notice brown patches on your skin, you might just think your freckles have joined forces or somehow become larger. Chances are, however, that the problem may actually be a condition called melasma. Of all the negative effects that the sun has on your skin, melasma is one of the worst from a cosmetic standpoint. A fairly common skin condition, melasma affects mostly women. In fact, only 10 percent of those affected are men [source: Montemorano]. People with darker skin tones, such as those of Latin American, Asian, Indian, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and African descent, are also more likely to get melasma than their fair counterparts. Keep Reading Below","Melasma, also known as chloasma, is particularly common among pregnant women. See more pictures of skin problems."
184,"2018-02-05 21:18:09","Nummular Dermatitis Overview","The name ""nummular dermatitis"" may seem like a mouthful of a medical condition. With a name like that, it may sound like a rare, complex disease, but it's actually a form of dermatitis, one of the most common skin conditions. Nummular dermatitis, also known as nummular eczema, is a condition that causes itchy, red oval- or coin-shaped lesions to form on the skin, usually on the legs, arms, feet, hands and torso. Nummular dermatitis affects about two in every 1,000 people, and it's more common in men than in women. The first outbreak usually occurs between the ages of 55 and 65, but in rare cases, the condition can develop between the ages of 15 and 25 [source: Miller]. Nummular dermatitis is very rare in children. Keep Reading Below","Nummular dermatitis is identified by its unique coin-shaped lesions. See more pictures of skin problems."
185,"2018-02-05 21:18:14","Periungual Warts Overview","Nobody likes warts. Toads are constantly ostracized for them. Evil witches are portrayed with them prominently on their noses. You can hide plantar warts with a pair of socks and shoes, but a wart on your hand might make you feel like everyone's taking notice. Warts can appear on skin on any part of the body, but where a wart develops determines its physical characteristics, such as size, color and texture. There are five different types of warts: common, plantar, flat, filiform and periungual. Warts growing near the nail bed, or periungual warts, are part of the common wart family and are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) [source: Mayo Clinic]. Periungual warts are unique because they develop around the nail on the foot and hand. Keep Reading Below","Periungal warts, caused by the human papillomavirus, occur around the nail bed of both hands and feet. See more pictures of skin problems."
186,"2018-02-05 21:18:18","Pityriasis Rosea Overview","One day, you start to feel an uncomfortable itch. After asking a family member to take a look at a rough spot on your back that's been making you scratch, they distressingly suggest that you might have ringworm. But don't worry yet -- it's not be time to panic if you do have ringworm. That's easily treated. Rough, circular rashes can be the sign of a number of conditions, including eczema, psoriasis and ringworm. Doctors can tell the difference best, so you need to seek out a professional opinion before jumping to any conclusions. In this particular case, your doctor makes an unexpected diagnosis and tells you that you have pityriasis rosea. Keep Reading Below","Skin Problems Image Gallery Pityriasis Rosea is a painful and itching skin condition that resembles ringworm. See more pictures of skin problems."
187,"2018-02-05 21:18:23","Plantar Warts Overview","From the second your tootsies hit the floor in the morning until you fall into bed from exhaustion late at night, your feet are on the move. With all that you do in a day -- early morning workouts, multiple office meetings and dinner and dancing -- you need your feet to be in top shape. However, plantar warts can stop you dead in your tracks. What are these things, anyway? Plantar warts are rough, spongy growths of skin on the soles of your feet that often develop on weight-bearing pressure points. These include the heels or balls of your feet. They're normally gray, brown or yellow in color, with dark pinpoints. The visible part of the wart is only the tip of a much larger wart hiding beneath the skin's surface, which adds to the pain this type of wart can cause [source: Podiatry Channel]. As a result, plantar warts can turn an activity as simple as walking into a painful ordeal. Keep Reading Below","Plantar warts, caused by the human papillomavirus, occur on the sole or toes of the foot. See more pictures of skin problems."
188,"2018-02-05 21:18:29","Psoriasis Overview","You might have seen ads for psoriasis treatments that show the red, blotchy skin that comes from the condition. If you don't like looking at it, imagine living with it. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder, which means it prevents the immune system from functioning correctly and identifying and killing pathogens. When our bodies are working properly, we shed 40,000 skin cells every minute. The immune systems of people with psoriasis send out faulty signals to the body, triggering the creation of excess skin cells. Instead of falling off, the cells build up on the skin and form red, scaly patches [source: National Psoriasis Foundation]. Keep Reading Below","Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that triggers the production of excess skin cells. See more pictures of skin problems."
189,"2018-02-05 21:18:34","Rhinophyma Overview","Located front and center on your face, your nose can say a lot about you. A swollen, runny nose, for example, lets everyone know a cold or allergy has taken over. If the skin on your nose is bright red and peeling after a day in the sun, it tells everyone you forgot your sunscreen. Even a small pimple seems to take on a life of its own when it pops up on the tip of your nose. So when you develop a more serious skin condition in your nasal area, like rhinophyma, it can raise a red flag quickly. Rhinophyma is a severe skin condition characterized by a red, inflamed and bulbous nose [source: Medline Plus]. In people with rhinophyma, the skin on the nose gets thicker, becomes bumpy and may take on a yellowish tone. The facial pores become enlarged, and the number of oil-producing glands in the skin may increase. Ultimately, the condition can become so pronounced that the tissue around the nose swells and grows to a point where the nose is disfigured. Like many skin conditions, rhinophyma doesn't develop overnight. It is the last stage in the progression of acne rosacea, a skin disorder that affects the face [source: International Rosacea Foundation]. Keep Reading Below","Rhinophyma, a progression of acne rosacea, is characterized by a red and bulbous nose. See more pictures of skin problems."
190,"2018-02-05 21:18:38","Ringworm Overview","Ringworm sounds downright scary, conjuring images of creepy, crawly critters invading the skin. The good news is that ringworm is actually a misnomer because there are actually no worms involved. Ringworm is caused by dermatophyte, a fungus. The resulting fungal infection is also known as tinea [source: National Center for Infectious Diseases]. Ringworm can affect several areas of your body. In fact, the name of each specific type of ringworm is created by combining the word tinea with the Latin term for the infected area [source: Trevino, Cairns]. Common ringworm infections include: Keep Reading Below","Tinea manus, a fungal infection. See more pictures of skin problems."
191,"2018-02-05 21:18:44","Rosacea Overview","If you don't know much about rosacea, you may think of it as a disease that simply gives people red faces, as if they're blushing all the time. Or, you might associate it with alcoholism, an image made famous by film actor W.C. Fields and his bulbous nose. The truth is that rosacea is a distressing condition that can have an intense impact on people who have it. And while W.C. Fields' trademark red nose was a complication of rosacea, it wasn't caused by alcoholism (although alcohol often makes rosacea worse). Millions of people in the United States have the chronic skin disease rosacea (ro-ZAY-sha or ro-ZAY-she-ah) but don't know it. In fact, almost eight out of 10 Americans said in a Gallup poll that they don't know anything about the condition. Yet, to the more than 14 million people with rosacea in the United States, its effects can be significant, both physically and emotionally [source: National Rosacea Society]. Keep Reading Below","Rosacea is often mistaken for acne, but it's a condition that requires a completely different type of treatment. See more pictures of skin problems."
192,"2018-02-05 21:18:46","Scabies Overview","It's a scene straight out of a cheap horror movie: microscopic creatures crawling on your skin, eating your flesh and laying their eggs inside you. Although it sounds impossible, this is the reality for the countless number of people suffering from scabies. Even though scabies is usually considered a disease that affects people in unclean living conditions, it can be -- and is -- contracted by anyone, no matter how or where they live. In fact, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, there are an estimated 300 million yearly cases of scabies worldwide [source: American Academy of Dermatology]. Scabies has a number of myths surrounding its causes and treatment. Do you catch it from a dog or cat that carries the mites into your home, or is it a sexually transmitted disease? Can you treat scabies with natural home remedies, or should you run for the pharmacy as soon as you start showing symptoms? And what should you do about the terrible itching? In any case, you need to act as soon as possible -- scabies symptoms sometimes don't appear until two months after infestation, and the disease can continue to spread to different body parts and other people during that entire period [source: Mayo Clinic]. Keep Reading Below","Model of "itch mite" or Sarcoptes scabiei burrowing inside human skin. See more pictures of skin problems."
193,"2018-02-05 21:18:50","Scalded Skin Syndrome","Staph bacteria normally live on your skin and in your nose without causing problems. However, skin damage, surgery or an injury may allow the bacteria to overcome the body's natural protective mechanisms and cause infection. Skin infections -- such as impetigo or cellulitis -- are the most common type of infection caused by staph, or Staphylococcus aureus [source: Stöppler]. But in rare cases, scalded skin syndrome, a serious condition that makes skin appear burned, can develop in newborns and young children [source: Dhar]. Being a new parent is stressful enough without seeing what appear to be burns all over your child's body. To make matters worse, scalded skin syndrome can be life-threatening, so immediate treatment is necessary. While the majority of scalded skin syndrome cases are seen in children under the age of six, infections can also occur in adults with renal failure or immune deficiency disorders [source: Dhar]. Keep Reading Below","Skin Problems Image Gallery Scalded skin syndrome typically occurs in children under the age of six. See more pictures of skin problems."
194,"2018-02-05 21:18:53","Seborrheic Dermatitis","If you have dandruff, you may have the mildest form of seborrheic dermatitis, and you're not alone: About 20 percent of the population has dandruff. But seborrheic dermatitis causes dry, flaky, oily or scaly skin, which can occur on the scalp, on the face or in the creases of the arms, legs or groin [source: AAFP]. Seborrheic dermatitis affects people of all ages -- even infants. The condition is called ""cradle cap"" in infants, and it develops on the scalp or in the diaper area. It usually disappears as the baby becomes a toddler, but it may occur in children up to three years old. Seborrheic dermatitis may also recur as the child reaches adolescence and puberty. Adults affected by the disease are usually between the ages of 40 and 70 [source: AAD]. Keep Reading Below","Men are more likely to develop seborrheic dermatitis than women. See more pictures of skin problems."
195,"2018-02-05 21:18:59","Skin Cancer Overview","Warnings about skin cancer seem to come from all sides -- from scientific researchers and family doctors, from parents to children, even from adult children to elderly parents. You may think you already know something about the disease and that you don't spend much time in the sun anyway. But as skin cancer rates continue to rise, greater awareness can help reduce its occurrence and save lives. Whether a person seeks out the sun or hides in the shade, skin cancer is a real possibility for virtually anyone. It is the most common type of cancer in the United States, affecting more than 1 million people each year [source: American Academy of Dermatology]. Almost half of Americans who live to age 65 will have some form of skin cancer at some point in their lives [souce: National Cancer Institute]. Keep Reading Below","What skin cancer looks like under the microscope. See more pictures of skin problems."
196,"2018-02-05 21:19:05","Skin Discoloration Basics","If you discover a discolored patch of skin on your body, should you be worried? With skin cancer awareness on the rise, it's good to be vigilant, but you don't want to fret over every little mole or patch. Being informed can help you figure out what's going on and how to proceed. First, you need to know how your skin gets its normal color. The top layer of your skin, called the epidermis, contains cells called melanocytes, which produce the pigment melanin when you're exposed to the sun. Melanin has many functions, one of which is to help block ultraviolet rays. When you tan and your skin turns brown, that's the melanin working to protect the layers of your skin. Keep Reading Below","Vitiligo is a condition in which the cells that make melanin stop working or die out, causing patches of lighter skin. See more pictures of skin problems."
197,"2018-02-05 21:19:07","How Skin Moles Work","Skin moles have been portrayed as ugly blemishes marring the faces of villains and witches. They've also been seen as sophisticated marks of beauty, gracing the faces of the world's most renowned celebrities and supermodels. Moles are an incredibly common occurrence; nearly everyone has at least a few. Most prevalent in fair-skinned people, skin moles are generally harmless skin growths that result from a high concentration of natural skin pigment. In most cases, moles go through their normal life cycle without ever causing a problem -- they're merely a normal part of a person's skin. Keep Reading Below","In centuries past, people put fake beauty marks on their faces. See more pictures of skin problems."
198,"2018-02-05 21:19:14","Skin Tags","Most people have had some sort of embarrassing skin problem to deal with in their lifetime. You know the names of most of these common conditions -- like acne, warts and blisters -- and probably already have a plan of attack for when they pop up. But there's at least one that many people have trouble identifying, let alone treating: acrochordons. Commonly referred to as skin tags, acrochordons are small outgrowths of the skin that affect about 46 percent of the general population [source: Schwartz]. Fortunately, skin tags are relatively harmless and quite common. Keep Reading Below","Wearing jewelry near skin tags can irritate them. See more pictures of skin problems."
199,"2018-02-05 21:19:17","Solar Urticaria Overview","Grab your sunglasses, bathing suit and sunscreen. A sunny day is an invitation to have fun and relax outdoors. For some people, though, exposure to sunlight causes urticaria (pronounced ur-tuh-KAR-ee-uh) -- another word for hives. Hives is a common allergic reaction that causes itchy, red welts on the skin. About 20 percent of the population will experience urticaria at least once [source: Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America]. Some of the most common causes are allergic reactions to certain medications and foods (shellfish and nuts, for example), pet dander, pollen and even stress. Solar urticaria is a rare form of hives caused by an allergic reaction to sunlight. Keep Reading Below","Solar urticaria is a rare skin condition caused by an allergic reaction to the sun. See more pictures of skin problems."
200,"2018-02-05 21:19:24","Statis Dermatitis Overview","Swollen legs and feet can be unsightly and painful, but they're not really harmful, are they? Actually, untreated swollen extremities can result in damaging long-term effects like permanent scarring and even skin ulcers. People with high blood pressure or poor circulation are at risk of developing stasis dermatitis, a disorder that causes excess fluid to accumulate under the skin, which makes it difficult for blood to feed cells and dispose of waste products. The condition usually causes swelling in the legs, ankles and feet and is commonly seen in older adults. Fluid accumulates because of a combination of high blood pressure and venous insufficiency, a condition in which blood flow through the veins is impaired [source: Flugman]. Molecules, such as fibrinogen, a protein in blood plasma, leak into tissue, and these molecules form a barrier around blood vessels in your skin. This barrier prevents oxygen from reaching tissue cells, which causes cell damage [source: Flugman]. Stasis dermatitis can also cause leg ulcers, skin and bone infections, and permanent scarring [source: Berman]. Keep Reading Below","Women are more likely to develop stasis dermatitis than men. See more pictures of skin problems."
201,"2018-02-05 21:19:26","Sun Spots","It's no secret that if you've had a lot of fun in the sun, your skin could end up paying the price. But there's a lot more to worry about than just a temporary burn. Over time, excessive sun exposure may result in lasting patches of discoloration called solar lentigines -- more commonly known as sun spots [source: Journal of Drugs in Dermatology]. These marks are also referred to as age or liver spots, though they may have little to do with age and nothing at all to do with the liver. They're often brown or gray and accompany other signs of sun damage, such as wrinkles and dry, thinning skin [source: Mayo Clinic]. Sun spots can vary in size, shape and color, and they often show up on the parts of the body that get the most sun, such as the hands and face. People with fair skin are more likely to get them than people with darker skin. In fact, more than 90 percent of light-skinned people over the age of 60 have sun-related age spots [source: Skin Resource Center, Mayo Clinic]. However, people with dark skin are not immune to sun scarring. On deep skin tones, the damage may appear in the form of gray or ashy areas [source: My Skin Care Connection]. Keep Reading Below","Sun spots are more common in older people, but young people can get them too. See more pictures of skin problems."
202,"2018-02-05 21:19:31","Vitiligo Overview","Skin, the body's largest organ, is also perhaps the most noticeable of all a person's features. Its characteristics -- thickness, number of hair follicles, color and sensitivity -- vary depending on what part of the body it covers, and they help create the first impression we make on others. But skin also performs some vital body functions, such as helping to regulate temperature and storing fat, vitamin D and water [source: University of Maryland Medical Center]. Additionally, the way skin looks can give clues as to the health and well-being of the body it covers. Sometimes, however, even when the body underneath may be fine, the color or condition of skin can change. Imagine, for example, that your skin stopped evenly producing melanin, the pigment that gives it its color. Your skin's new blotchy, discolored appearance might alter the way you look at yourself -- and probably the way others look at you, too. Case in point: Michael Jackson. The rumors that the late pop star had bleached his skin in order to look lighter began because he reportedly had vitiligo (pronounced vit-i-LI-go), a condition that inhibits the skin's normal melanin production. Jackson's famous one-gloved look was, some say, an early attempt to mask the symptoms of vitiligo [source: CNN]. Keep Reading Below","Vitiligo occurs when areas of the skin can no longer produce the pigment melanin. See more pictures of skin problems."
203,"2018-02-05 21:19:33","Windburn Overview","You may think that your skin is safe from the elements once swimsuit season ends and the air gets cold. Unfortunately, that's not the case. Most people know that the sun can still harm your skin in the winter, but there's another environmental factor to watch out for -- the wind. Your skin has an outer layer made of molecules called lipids; they keep your skin moisturized and protect it from the sun and wind. When the air is cold, however, your skin contains less moisture. As a result, the elements can break down these lipids and harm your skin more easily. The combination of wind friction on exposed areas of the skin and ultraviolet (UV) ray exposure -- which can occur even on cloudy days -- can cause the redness and skin irritation commonly known as windburn [source: Baumann]. Keep Reading Below","Man with excessive sunblock and large goggles on the slopes. See more pictures of skin problems."
204,"2018-02-05 21:19:39","Xanthomas Overview","Throughout your life you've probably noticed various bumps coming and going on your skin. When you're younger these bumps can be acne, an allergic reaction or an infection like the chicken pox. However, there is a skin condition known as xanthoma that may be masquerading as acne or an allergic reaction. This exotic-sounding affliction is actually pretty common. Xanthomas are bumps that form when fat collects in pockets under the skin, and usually occurs in those over the age of 40. These bumps can pop up anywhere on your body but are most frequently found near the eyes, hands, feet and joints [sources: Lehrer, Fair]. Xanthomas are usually painless, but they can be unsightly. These bumps often appear yellow to red in color, occur in clusters and come in a variety of sizes, ranging from very small to larger than several inches. There are several types of xanthomas and each has it's own specific features and locations. The most common kind of xanthoma is xanthelasma palpebrarum which usually appears as a yellow, velvety bump on the eyelids. Tuberous xanthomas are firm, reddish-yellow bumps that usually form on pressure areas like the elbows and knees. Eruptive xanthomas are also red-yellow in color and these often occur in clusters on the buttocks or shoulders. Unlike most xanthomas, this type can be painful and itch. [source: Fair]. Because of their specific features and locations, xanthomas are often diagnosed by physicial exam but a biopsy can confirm a diagnosis if there are any doubts. Keep Reading Below","An allergic reaction or a xanthoma? See more pictures of skin problems."
205,"2018-02-05 21:19:43","Is it possible to be allergic to the sun?","People can be allergic to almost anything -- and that includes the sun. In fact, several different types of sun allergies have been identified in recent years. An allergy occurs because your immune system overreacts to something harmless in the environment that your immune system has deemed as harmful. As your immune system fights the allergen it releases histamine, a chemical that causes most of the typical allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose and hives [source: WebMD]. Keep Reading Below","Skin Problems Image Gallery Shown here is a bumpy red skin rash on the arm of a child. See more pictures of skin problems."
206,"2018-02-05 21:19:44","What are the different types of warts?","Despite what your parents may have told you, you don't get warts from frogs. Contrary to popular belief, warts are actually caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). [source: WebMD]. Although they can be unsightly and uncomfortable, warts are generally harmless. They form when HPV forces your body to make excess skin cells. This seems innocuous, but there's no place for those cells to go; as a result, they form bumps on your skin or grow inward, which can be painful. There are several different types of warts. The most common warts are those that form on the hand or knee; these are known as verruca vulgaris. They develop as hard bumps on the skin and tend to be pink or brown in color. They can develop as a single entity or in small groups [source: Bupa]. Keep Reading Below","Skin Problems Image Gallery Warts may be unsightly, but the"
207,"2018-02-05 21:19:50","Adult Acne Overview","If you're like most people, the word ""acne"" probably reminds you of pimply-faced teenagers struggling through that awkward period of youth. However, that image isn't exactly accurate. More and more people past adolescence now report troubles with the condition. Nearly 20 percent of men and 30 percent of women over the age of 20 have some sort of breakout [source: WebMD]. Adult acne can affect a person in two different ways -- persistent acne, when the acne follows a person from puberty into adulthood, and late-onset acne, when people see acne after years of having unblemished skin [source: AcneNet]. Adult acne has just as many myths associated with as the teenaged variety. Some people think it is caused by eating greasy food or a lack of hygiene. Others wonder about treatment: Should you pop pimples, wash your face 10 times a day or simply let the nuisance run its course? Although the cause of adult acne is not always certain, the results are almost always the same: frustrating blemishes on the skin and -- in severe cases -- permanent scarring. Keep Reading Below","Skin Problems Image Gallery"
208,"2018-02-05 21:19:53","All About Acne","There are around 17 million people in America who woke up this morning, shuffled into the bathroom, looked at themselves in the mirror and yelled, ""Aw, come on!"" Then, many of them started scrubbing, washing, peeling and picking at their faces in their attempts to rid themselves of their acne. Most of these acne sufferers are teenagers and twentysomethings. However, the good times don't always end with the passing of adolescence -- adults get acne, too. In this cruel world, even babies get it. At some point in our lives, most of us will experience the unpleasantness of acne. Keep Reading Below",""" title="
209,"2018-02-05 21:19:56","Herpes 101","What do you think of when you see the word ""herpes""? Painful blisters on the genital area, right? You probably know that there's no cure and that you can get it through sexual contact. Often, though, that's the extent of the average person's knowledge when it comes to herpes. Have you ever gotten a painful, tingling fever blister on your lip? If you get cold sores, then you have herpes. If you haven't gotten cold sores, you're still not home free -- if you've had chicken pox, you're carrying a different type of herpes. Keep Reading Below","Most of us suffered through these itchy red bumps as kids. But did you know that they're caused by a herpes virus?"
210,"2018-02-05 21:20:02","7 Ways to Get Rid of Cold Sores","­­Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus, which is believed to lie dormant i­n certain nerve cells of the body until it is activated by stress, anxiety, a cold, or excessive exposure to the sun. The sores last anywhere from 7 to 14 days. Although some use the terms ""cold sore"" and ""canker sore"" interchangeably, they are different. Unlike cold sores, canker sores are bacterial infections inside the mouth that are characterized by small, round, white areas surrounded by a sharp halo of red. And, while cold sores are highly contagious, canker sores are not. Unfortunately, attempting to camouflage a cold sore with makeup often aggravates the problem. Still, while you can't do much about the way a cold sore looks, you can do a few things to help decrease discomfort, speed healing, and keep it from coming back. You can even take steps to prevent passing on your cold sore to others. Here's how.","Cold sores can caused by stress and colds. See more personal hygiene pictures."
211,"2018-02-05 21:20:09","How Albinism Works","Have you ever seen someone who has albinism? Sure, you have: Jeremy Reed in the 1995 movie, ""Powder,"" with unmistakably white skin. Lightning struck his mother during pregnancy, enabling him to read people's thoughts. But as you might have guessed, albinism is a physical, not a supernatural, condition. Let's leave Hollywood and enter the lab and clinic to separate fact from fiction. What, exactly, is albinism? Albinism is a collective term for many loosely related conditions. Everyone with albinism makes less than the normal amount of the pigment melanin. In order to understand how albinism works, you must first understand how melanin works. Keep Reading Below","Christine is a young American college student with albinism. See skin problem pictures to learn more."
212,"2018-02-05 21:20:15","Hyperhidrosis Overview","Imagine getting ready for work and having to change clothes before you even leave the house because you've already sweated through your first shirt. After carefully padding the armpits of the new shirt to try to prevent sweat from drenching it, you make sure to bring a few spares so you can change later in the day. Breakfast proves to be a challenge when the warm mug keeps slipping from your sweaty palms, and keeping a grip on your fork is a challenge. You're relieved you didn't accept the breakfast invitation from your co-workers -- this ordeal is unbearable in front of other people. Your sweaty hands make it difficult to grip the steering wheel, so you must drive extra cautiously. By the time you arrive at work, your socks and shoes are soaked with sweat. And so, sitting down at your desk, you sigh and begin the struggle of getting through another day. Keep Reading Below","Someone with hyperhidrosis might produce four or five times more sweat than a person who sweats normally. See more getting beautiful skin pictures."
213,"2018-02-05 21:20:21","How Chicken Pox Works","Despite differing languages, cultures and upbringings, kids across the world once shared the same itchy, icky, blistery milestone: chicken pox. From Beijing to Boston, these pesky pustules have plagued up to 95 percent of children and adults in densely populated areas, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada. Sprouting anywhere from 30 to 1,500 blisters on its victims, this globetrotting nuisance leaves people feverish and aching to scratch. Chicken pox is the common name for the varicella zoster virus, which has harassed humans for centuries. Naples-born Giovanni Filippo Ingrassia, who studied the structure of bones, first identified the varicella virus in the 16th century [source: Ackernecht]. It took another few hundred years before doctors could consistently tell chicken pox apart from smallpox, its more lethal viral cousin [source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)]. Keep Reading Below","That's not a bad case of back acne. It's chicken pox."
214,"2018-02-05 21:20:26","Understanding Skin Allergies","The skin is your largest organ and an important defender against invaders. It is constantly bombarded and usually fends off trouble quite successfully. Sometimes, however, an allergen gets the best of your skin, causing a reaction. Symptoms can include a rash or hives, or swelling, itching, and cracking of the skin. Our hands, arms, neck, and face come in contact with so many substances every day that they are the most common sites for an allergic skin reaction, but no part of your anatomy is immune. A skin reaction that is the result of contact with an allergen is called allergic contact dermatitis. (By contrast, a skin reaction caused by contact with a substance that is harsh or caustic is called irritant contact dermatitis and does not involve allergies or the immune system.) Keep Reading Below","Skin allergies can cause itching and rashes."
215,"2018-02-05 21:20:30","How does acne work?","Four out of five people between the ages of twelve and twenty-five have acne, making it the most commonly diagnosed skin condition. In spite of its prevalence, there are a lot of misconceptions about how acne works and about how to treat it.                           See more getting beautiful skin pictures. Keep Reading Below",""" title="
216,"2018-02-05 21:20:34","Understanding Scleroderma and Raynaud's","There are several forms of scleroderma, including ""morphea"" scleroderma. This type, which affects mostly children, is characterized by patches of inflamed skin. With ""linear scleroderma"", tissue below the skin is affected. If muscle and bone are afflicted, mobility and limb growth problems develop. The more severe forms of scleroderma — known as systemic sclerosis — are fatal if not diagnosed and treated early. Fibrosis affecting the lungs, heart, bowel and kidneys is the main cause of death. Ninety percent of people with scleroderma also have Raynaud's. Raynaud's: Prevalent in Women Raynaud's can affect any age group but appears to be more prevalent in women. A Raynaud's attack is often triggered by exposure to the cold or by touching cold objects. Blood flow to the hands and feet, in particular, becomes temporarily interrupted as the supply arteries there spasmodically contract. Fingers and toes take on a white appearance before turning blue and eventually bright red. Sufferers can feel numb and tingling sensations and some experience a great deal of pain. Two forms of the condition exist: the milder primary Raynaud's occurs spontaneously and can be genetically inherited. Secondary Raynaud's — although less common — can lead to more severe consequences such as ulceration, gangrene and even amputation. With this form there is also an association with an underlying disease such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or scleroderma. The condition afflicts people in different ways: In some people, it affects the hands and can make it difficult to stretch the fingers. In others, it covers the skin on the body, face and arms.",
217,"2018-02-05 21:20:38","Rosacea and Your Skin", ,
218,"2018-02-05 21:20:43","What Is Rosacea?","People with rosacea might first notice a tendency to flush or blush easily. The condition can occur over a long period of time and often progresses to a persistent redness, with pimples and visible blood vessels in the center of the face that might eventually involve the cheeks, forehead, chin and nose. Other affected areas include the neck, ears, chest and back. Sometimes, rosacea affects the eyes. The cause of this disease is unknown. Researchers think that heredity and the environment might play roles in the development of rosacea. .",
219,"2018-02-05 21:20:47","What Is That Lesion?","Possible Indicator: Skin cancer Symptom: A change in the color, shape or size of a mole Possible Indicator: Skin cancer Symptom: Any new skin growth Possible Indicator: Skin cancer Symptom: Excessive dryness and itching that doesn't respond to moisturizers Possible Indicator: Shingles Symptom: Bulging or tender vein in the legs Possible Indicator: Varicose veins, associated with spider veins Symptom: Any sore, on any part of the body, that fails to heal Possible Indicator: Skin cancer, diabetes, circulatory problems Information courtesy of the American Academy of Dermatology",
220,"2018-02-05 21:20:53",Psoriasis,"Psoriasis is an inherited disease that causes an increase in skin cells on the outer layer of the skin. In a healthy individual, skin cells mature and shed from the surface of the body about every 28 days. People with psoriasis shed skin cells every 3 to 4 days. The excess skin cells build up and form the skin lesions of psoriasis. What are the signs and symptoms of psoriasis? Following are the five major types of psoriasis, each with its own characteristic skin lesions: erythrodermic psoriasis, which causes reddening and swelling of large areas of skinguttate psoriasis, which causes small skin lesions that look like drops of fluidinverse psoriasis, which causes smooth red lesions in the folds of the skinplaque psoriasis, the most common type, which causes raised red skin lesions that develop silvery-white scalespustular psoriasis, which forms blisters filled with thick white material Other symptoms of psoriasis are as follows: crumbling or abnormal fingernails and toenailsitchingthickening, cracking, and blistering of the palms or soles of the feet The severity of symptoms may range from a mild cosmetic problem to a disfiguring, disabling condition. What are the causes and risks of psoriasis? The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is commonly believed that the body's immune system triggers the rapid growth and shedding of skin cells. Several genes have been linked to psoriasis, which tends to run in families. However, many people with psoriasis have no family history of the disease. Certain factors seem to trigger plaque development in people with psoriasis. Suspected triggers include the following: agents that damage the skin, including chemicals, electricity, and infectious agents such as bacteriaalcoholbodywide infections, including HIVexcessive scratchinghormonal changesinjuries to the skin, including sunburnseasonal changes in climatesmokingsome medicines, including beta-blockers, antimalarials, and NSAIDsstrep throatstress A person can develop psoriasis at any age. However, it most often develops in two age ranges. The first is between 16 and 22 years of age, and the second is between 57 and 60 years of age. It affects men and women equally and is seen in all races. However, psoriasis is more common in people of Western European and Scandinavian ancestry.",
246,"2018-02-05 21:20:55","5 Tips for Reducing Acne Scars","So, you had acne when you were younger or just recovered from a bout of adult acne. The bumps are gone, but the purplish scars still linger. How can you reduce or get rid of them? The first few tips for reducing acne scars have to do with basic skin care to manage outbreaks. Home remedies or natural cures may be all you need for mild or isolated acne scars. Some of the ingredients for them may be in your kitchen or powder room at this very moment. Then, there are non-prescription treatments you can purchase in the beauty section of the drug store, as well as therapies you can get through a doctor. Although there are a number of ways to reduce acne scars, most require repeated treatments over time. Patience is essential: Sticking with scar removal treatment for the long haul will get you more of the flawless complexion you desire.","Acne scars can last long after the pimple disappears. See more pictures of skin problems."
247,"2018-02-05 21:20:59","Can colored lights really treat acne?","In March 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) tightened access to isotretinoin medications. Better known under brand names such as Accutane and Claravis, isotretinoin had become a highly popular and effective treatment for acne. But amid concerns about birth defects following fetal exposure to the drug, the FDA instituted the iPLEDGE program, which monitors the prescription process more carefully [source: Hampton]. In part due to those new regulations, dermatologists began paying more attention to alternative acne therapies, specifically laser and light treatments [source: Meville]. These procedures involve exposing affected skin areas to various types of infrared lasers and high-intensity lights to eliminate the acne-causing bacteria. Keep Reading Below","Dermatologists began looking more to phototherapy after the FDA placed tighter regulations on isotretinoin. See more pictures of skin problems."
248,"2018-02-05 21:21:01","15 Ways to Get Rid of Acne","Your skin is your largest organ, and it does a lot more than simply prevent you from spilling out all over the place. Skin cells are constantly replacing themselves, making a journey from the inner edge of your epidermis (your skin's outermost layer) to the outside of your skin. As a skin cell ages and approaches the skin's surface, the dying cell flattens out. Once on the surface, it joins countless other dead skin cells and forms a protective layer that helps protect you from bacteria and viruses. Inside your hair follicles, there are small glands producing oil called sebum. This oil mixes with skin cells in the follicle and joins them on the journey outward. But when there's too much sebum, too many dead skin cells or something on the surface that blocks their exit from the follicle, a blockage can occur. Bacteria joins the party, and the result is acne vulgaris, the most common form of acne. While acne usually affects teenagers and 20somethings the most, anyone of any age can get acne, even babies. Our instinctual response -- picking at it, rubbing it and canceling our social engagements -- doesn't help in the least, but fortunately, there are some treatments available that can. So what can we do to get rid of acne? Let's talk more that instinctual response next.","Great. Now what? See more pictures of skin problems."
249,"2018-02-05 21:21:05","How to Prevent Sweat Stains","Picture this: You're a man about town and you have a wedding to attend. Your only suit is in a small dusty heap on a shelf in your hanger-less closet. You dig it out as if you're handling hazardous materials, lacking only the thick elbow-length gloves and industrial respirator. Your lone dress shirt is even worse for the wear, but you hang it all up in your shower and crank up the heat with hopes for a wrinkle-free evening. You're almost there, but there's one more piece to this ugly puzzle. The undershirt. After a slow pull on your bottom drawer, you find it lying dead beneath your emergency-only tightie whities. This soldier has seen some rough duty. Wrinkled, off-white at this point, and with the signature, most embarrassing feature a shirt can possess -- the crunchy, mustard-colored sweat stains spilling out from both armpits. This is not a male-only phenomenon. Women, too, are saddled with the dreaded stains. Sweat stains are quick way to turn off a date or potential paramour. Sweat stains make you appear like you're a moist and rank human being. Sweat stains kill unicorns. If all this is true, wouldn't you want to avoid them at all costs? The answer is yes. And the good news is you can. Sure, there are some ways of removing sweat stains. But once you get the right mix of deodorant residue and perspiration, your poor shirt is in for it. It's crossed over and can't be revived. The trick to sweat-stain management is to avoid it in the first place so you never have to suffer the indignity of soaking the yellow cotton pits with vinegar and bleach. Read this article if you have any self respect. Stop sweat stains. Keep Reading Below","Skin Problems Image Gallery This guy could probably use some antiperspirant. See more pictures of skin problems."
250,"2018-02-05 21:21:09","Can yoga clear up acne?","For many, yoga brings to mind stretchy pants worn by stretchy people, but this ancient practice is much more than that. Practitioners of yoga twist, contort and stretch their bodies into poses called asanas while using focused breath patterns to achieve a state of exertion, control, meditation and oneness between mind and body. Yoga has physical benefits for practitioners beyond increased strength and flexibility, however. Research has shown that yoga is better for treating lower back pain than other forms of exercise. And although most forms of yoga don't put the body into an aerobic state, middle-aged people -- prone to creeping weight gain between the ages of 45 and 55 -- who regularly practice yoga stay fitter and trimmer than those who don't [source: Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center]. Keep Reading Below","What can lotus pose do for you? See more yoga pictures."
251,"2018-02-05 21:21:12","Tretinoin Overview","Acne is a problem that just about everyone experiences at some point. For some, it becomes a severe problem that can lead to permanent scarring, self-esteem issues and even serious skin infections. For the most persistent cases of acne, there's a drug called tretinoin (and its isomer, isotretinoin). Used either as a pill or a topical cream, it's sort of like an atom bomb in the war against acne. It's a weapon of last resort, one that might cause a lot of collateral damage in the quest for clear skin. Tretinoin is a big deal for dermatologists for another reason: It can be used to reduce certain signs of aging. It's no fountain of youth, but it is a cornerstone of the multi-billion dollar per year anti-aging industry. This is despite the fact that in 2002 more than 50 scientists released a statement warning about the growing anti-aging industry and proclaiming that there really is no scientific way to ""stop, slow or reverse human aging"" [source: ScienceDaily]. Keep Reading Below","Skin problems Image Gallery A developing fetus needs vitamin A, but tretinoin causes a vitamin A overload that can cause a miscarriage or birth defects. See more pictures of skin problems."
252,"2018-02-05 21:21:15","5 Surprising Acne Treatments","Acne can make an unwelcome appearance on our faces at any point between the cradle and the grave. While it's more common and more intense for adolescents and those in their 20s due to heightened levels of hormones such as testosterone, infants and older adults get acne as well. Often, we'll think we've outgrown it only to be surprised by its periodic reappearance. Our faces are covered in tiny hair follicles. Sweat travels out of these follicles, as does an oily substance called sebum. Sebum is created by sebaceous glands, which exist within each hair follicle. As sebum works its way up and out of the follicle, it carries with it dead skin cells. The mix of sweat and sebum forms a protective layer upon your skin, keeping bacteria and other harmful substances from entering your body. When too many dead skin cells are present, too much sebum is produced, or substances on the skin (like makeup) cover up the follicles, blockages occur. Once sebum and dead skin cells are trapped, bacteria multiplies and inflammation occurs, resulting in acne. There are acne treatments that you may be very familiar with, such as washing your face regularly, applying benzoyl peroxide to your skin, and managing your stress levels through exercise. However, there are five surprising acne treatments -- some with proven effectiveness, some without -- that you may not have heard of. First up: topping yourself off with your tissue salt.","Skin Problems Image Gallery There's no telling what you'll find with a magnifying glass. See more pictures of skin problems."
253,"2018-02-05 21:21:19","Are foot scrapers safe to use on my feet?","Think about how much pressure your feet experience every day. When we're standing up straight, they're the lowest point on our body, and that means they're supporting the weight of everything above them. It's no wonder we get calluses, corns and hardened skin on the bottom of our feet. Fortunately, foot scrapers are available. They're relatively safe to use, but for some people it might be a better idea to tiptoe around them. Keep Reading Below","Should you use a foot scraper?"
254,"2018-02-05 21:21:22","Are lasers a safe way to treat spider veins?","Spider veins not only sound ominous, they look a little scary, too. Like varicose veins, spider veins are raised, twisted veins visible on the skin's surface, but they are much smaller than varicose veins. Generally red, blue or purple in color, they look like clusters of tiny tree branches or spider webs and can be found in small or large areas of the skin. They usually appear on the face or on the legs and feet [source: National Women's Health Information Center, WebMD]. Spider veins do not tend to hurt, but they can be unsightly and present a cosmetic problem. Fortunately, several treatments are available. To understand these treatments, it is important to know what causes spider veins. They can result from the same circulatory problems that cause varicose veins. When veins in the legs weaken or experience too much pressure because of weight, pregnancy, age, injury or long periods of time on one's feet, blood becomes trapped and enlarges the veins. Sun exposure, hormonal changes and genetics can also cause spider veins to appear [source: National Women's Health Information Center, WebMD]. Keep Reading Below","Some lifestyle changes, like exercise, may help alleviate spider veins. See more pictures of skin problems."
255,"2018-02-05 21:21:26","Are lasers a safe way to treat varicose veins?","Some skin conditions are unsightly but not physically painful. Others may hurt, but they don't look so bad. Varicose veins -- those enlarged, twisted veins visible beneath the surface of the skin -- unfortunately can be both. Generally blue or purple in color, varicose veins most often appear on the legs and ankles. Though they do not always hurt, many people do experience aching, swelling, cramping and itching around the raised veins [sources: Mayo Clinic, WebMD]. Keep Reading Below","Simple laser treatments for varicose veins involve applying laser-focused heat to the problem area, while endovenus laser treatments are more invasive. See more pictures of skin problems."
256,"2018-02-05 21:21:29","Can argan oil help my skin?","In the world of skin care, there always seems to be some new, wonder substance that's touted as having the power to solve all of your beauty problems. When experts stumble upon these natural ingredients that have skin-smoothing or anti-aging properties, you may be tempted to run out and try them immediately. But a little advance research on some of these skin care miracles might help you determine if they provide any real benefit. Argan oil -- a natural product that's gained popularity in recent years -- is a great example. Often called ""liquid gold,"" argan oil is derived from nuts found within the fruit of argan trees, which grow almost exclusively in a certain region of Morocco. Primarily produced on small, female-run cooperatives, argan oil is high in vitamin E, essential fatty acids and antioxidants, and experts believe it can help with many skin conditions, from dry skin and wrinkles to psoriasis, eczema and acne [source Larocca]. These purported restorative and anti-aging benefits have led to a high demand for this difficult-to-produce oil. Keep Reading Below","Used in lotions or in its pure form, argan oil may help revitalize dry, dull skin."
257,"2018-02-05 21:21:33","Can prescription acne medication kill me?","People spend tons of money and countless hours in front of the mirror every year trying to keep their acne under control. Wouldn't it be so much easier if they could just take a pill or apply a cream that cleared everything up? Some oral medications are available. The only problem is that most of them come with side effects, and one prescription acne medication in particular comes with some pretty severe ones. Keep Reading Below","What are some of the side effects associated with acne medication? See more pictures of skin problems."
258,"2018-02-05 21:21:37","Can water cure acne?","Many of us have heard this before: If you drink enough water, you can cleanse your body and bloodstream. This in turn will prevent a buildup of toxins that may cause your skin to break out. The theory sounds logical enough. Unfortunately, it isn't true. The American Academy of Dermatology does not recognize the act of drinking water as a method for healing or preventing breakouts. In general, drinking plenty of water is beneficial because your skin needs moisture to stay healthy. Water alone, however, will not cure your acne [source: Archer]. Keep Reading Below","Getting Beautiful Skin Image Gallery Drinking water hydrates your body and helps to flush waste from your system. See more pictures of ways to get beautiful skin."
259,"2018-02-05 21:21:42","Does honey vinegar acid help skin?","Honey -- that sweet, healthy nectar of bees -- shows up in many products, from cereal and bread to soaps and lotions. People use honey to sweeten food and beverages, consume honey to boost their energy or immune systems, and even apply it to burns, stings, rashes and other trouble spots on their skin. When combined with vinegar, honey may become an even more effective natural skin care product. However, it's important to understand what effect honey and vinegar acid will have before you put them on your skin. Honey acts as a humectant, meaning that it traps moisture, a desirable attribute of many skin care products. By sealing moisture into the skin, honey helps soothe dry, scaly tissue. It also has an antibiotic effect. This is why people use honey to treat wounds -- it contains an enzyme that generates a form of hydrogen peroxide when applied to the injured area. For this reason, honey not only softens and restores moisture to damaged skin but also remedies irritation and reduces inflammation. Applied to trouble acne spots, honey may even help clear up pimples [source: Gibson, National Honey Board]. Keep Reading Below","When mixed together, honey and apple cider vinegar may make an effective skin toner."
260,"2018-02-05 21:21:43","Does lemon juice really get rid of freckles?","It's possible to do a lot more than just make a drink with lemon juice. You can use it to sanitize a counter top, brighten white loads of laundry, and, believe it or not, you can even use it to treat freckles. It won't actually get rid of freckles, but lemon juice is a strong fruit acid, and it works well as a bleaching agent. Similar to the way people use it to highlight streaks of hair during the summer, lemon juice can lighten to your skin. Some people are born with freckles, and others develop them after years of sun exposure. Since they're common and almost always harmless, there's not usually any health reason to treat freckles. If you don't want to live with them, however, you don't have to. To fade them out, go to the store and buy some lemons -- or, if you don't like squeezing them yourself, just buy lemon juice, but make sure it's pure. Artificial ingredients and flavorings won't work as well. Keep Reading Below","Skin Problems Image Gallery Lemon juice may not get rid of your freckles completely, but it can cause them to fade. See more pictures of skin problems."
261,"2018-02-05 21:21:50","Does shea butter help scars fade?","A childhood rollerblading accident. A high school sports injury. A slip of the knife while chopping vegetables. Considering how frequently accidents happen, it's highly unlikely you've made it to wherever you are in life without accumulating a scar or two. Scars form when the body generates new tissue to heal and help reconnect damaged skin, resulting in ""new"" skin that is of a different texture and quality than the older skin [source: WebMD]. You may be proud of some scars -- or at least they don't bother you -- but others probably make you self-conscious. If you are uncomfortable with the appearance of your scars, you may be looking for a way to make them less noticeable. Keep Reading Below","Getting Beautiful Skin Image Gallery Shea butter, a natural fat, is a common ingredient in many moisturizers and scar creams. See more pictures of ways to get beautiful skin."
262,"2018-02-05 21:21:52","Blu-U Treatments","If you think you're alone in your skin troubles, consider this: Approximately 80 percent of people in the world deal with acne at some point [source: Kansas City Skin Care Center]. It's caused by an excess of oil, or sebum, that's produced by the glands that surround hair follicles. When too much sebum and skin cells clog the follicles, they become irritated and inflamed, resulting in those dreaded bumps -- pimples, whiteheads, blackheads and other lesions. For this reason, acne is more common among people who have oily skin, but it can affect people of all skin types. There are a number of treatments for acne -- one of the newer ones is Blu-U. Blu-U works to treat acne through blue-light therapy. The high intensity blue light -- combined with the topical solution called Levulan Kerastick that's applied to your face before treatment -- kills the bacteria Propionibacterium (P. acnes). Left untreated, this bacteria can worsen acne by causing additional inflammation and allowing it to spread [source: DUSA Pharmaceuticals, Inc.]. A Blu-U procedure only takes about 15 minutes and is not painful. There are minimal side effects, but one downside is that you'll have to continue getting the treatments if you want acne to stay away. Blu-U is not always a sure thing: It has proven effective in many cases but not all. Keep Reading Below","Blue-light therapy has proven effective in treating acne in many cases, but the long-term effects aren't known."
263,"2018-02-05 21:21:56","How can rose water help my skin?","Humans' love affair with roses -- for beauty and for health purposes -- has a long history. Rose water has made its way into cosmetics and medicine for many centuries [source: Manus]. Today, beauty experts still consider rose water a wonderfully gentle, natural ingredient with fabulous skin-enhancing benefits. Rose water is a byproduct of steam distillation, the process that's used to isolate the plant's essential oil. Some of your beauty products probably contain rose water, but you might want to consider adding a bottle of this ingredient in its pure form to your bathroom inventory, too. Keep Reading Below","Some people use rose water as a moisturizer, since its natural oil may help trap water in the skin."
264,"2018-02-05 21:22:01","Doctor Fish Skin Treatment","One of the latest fads in skin care involves tanks of live fish, and it's stirring up quite a controversy. Garra rufa, or doctor fish as they're known to most of the world, have been used in spas across Europe and Asia for quite some time, but they weren't introduced to the United States until 2008. That's when a Virginia salon owner brought the fish home from a China spa and started offering doctor fish pedicures [source: Shishkin]. The fish originate in Turkey, where they've been used for more than 100 years to treat serious skin conditions such as psoriasis. The water temperatures there are high, which prevents many nutrients from surviving. As a result, doctor fish are basically starving and seem to have an insatiable appetite for dead skin [source: Atkins]. The popularity of doctor fish pedicures in the United States probably has as much to do with novelty as anything else. At the very least it's a creative way to exfoliate, and it seems to work. Keep Reading Below","Doctor fish are used in pedicures and other skin treatments to remove dead skin cells."
265,"2018-02-05 21:22:07","How does safflower oil benefit skin?","If you check the label of some of your favorite foods, you may find safflower oil in the list of ingredients. It's a commonly used vegetable oil in tasty treats including desserts, breads and salad dressings. But you might be surprised to learn that safflower oil can also be found in some of the products you use on your body. In skin care products, safflower oil is used as a lubricant with occlusive properties, meaning that it acts as a protective barrier to prevent water from leaving your skin. It works with your skin to soften dryness, smooth roughness and soothe some skin problems. You might find it in products such as moisturizers, conditioners and facial cleansers. Keep Reading Below","The oil of safflower blooms is used as a moisturizer."
266,"2018-02-05 21:22:11","How does sesame oil benefit skin?","Sesame oil is often used in Asian cooking recipes because it enhances foods with natural flavors and aromas found only in sesame seeds. Whether you're using a wok or rolling wontons, the cooking oil and flavoring ingredient is a crucial part of the unique seasoning in many kinds of recipes. A similar version of that same oil splashed in wontons can work in personal care products to soften and protect your skin. Sesame seed oil originates from the Sesamum indicum plant. The plant's seeds are pressed to obtain the pale yellow oil, which contains fatty acids that can work to protect your skin. These fatty acids -- which include linoleic, palmitic, oleic and stearic acids -- act as emollients, meaning they help moisturize the skin to keep it smooth and soft [source: Personal Care Products Council]. Keep Reading Below","Oil pressed from sesame seeds can help to keep your skin moisturized."
267,"2018-02-05 21:22:13","Epsom Salt Bath Treatments","Children and adults look forward to taking baths for different reasons: Cleaning off after a hard day of labor, playing with bubbles and squeaky toys, or just relaxing with candles and soft music. But taking a bath in Epsom salt offers health benefits that have led many people for years to make soaking in the tub a regular routine. People take Epsom salt baths for many reasons: They can help to relieve stress, soothe your muscles, soften your skin and maybe even reduce the look of wrinkles. Some recent studies have even indicated that Epsom salt baths may be soothing for children with autism. Keep Reading Below","Epsom salt baths can help to relax sore muscles and soften skin."
268,"2018-02-05 21:22:16","Face Steaming Basics","The ancient Greeks and Romans harnessed steam for health and beauty much the same way we do today. At about 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43 degrees Celsius), the temperatures employed in steam treatments are enough to make you sweat -- perhaps the only time perspiration might be even a little pleasant. If you've ever been in a steam room or hot tub, you know the feeling of warmth enveloping you and steering you toward relaxation. The steam works its magic on your skin, adding moisture and helping to cleanse your body's largest organ of impurities. Steaming is often done during a spa facial, which may be a treat if you have the time and money for it, but you don't have to wait for a spa session. You can still get the benefits of steaming by concentrating on your face. It's one of the simplest, most inexpensive facial treatments you can do at home. If you have minutes to spare, you can reap some great benefits for your skin with some warm water, a pot or bowl and a towel. Of course, you can get fancier by adding extra ingredients, but there's no need to. Keep Reading Below","Getting Beautiful Skin Image Gallery Face steaming is a treatment that can help to clear out clogged pores. See more pictures of ways to get beautiful skin."
269,"2018-02-05 21:22:19","Milk Baths","White and creamy milk mustaches have long been in advertisements to promote the healthy effects of drinking milk. What these ads don't stress is that the milk mustache may do more than just remind you to drink milk for strong bones. Some of the vitamins, proteins and fats found in milk might be able to benefit your skin, too. Donning a milk mustache probably isn't the best way to take advantage of milk's beneficial effects on your skin, but soaking in a milk bath may be. Mixing a little milk with the bathwater has been done for centuries as a quick, easy and cheap way to moisturize and soften your skin while you relax in the tub. Keep Reading Below","Getting Beautiful Skin Image Gallery Milk baths have long been used as a way to moisten and soften skin. See more pictures of ways to get beautiful skin."
270,"2018-02-05 21:22:23","Mineral Body Wraps","The idea of dropping a few inches from your waist in an hour's time without exercising or dieting might sound like an impossible feat, but repeat users of mineral body wraps claim that it's true. Celebrities often get these wraps before special events, such as an awards show or performance. Former model Tyra Banks had herself filmed while getting one and reported the results on her syndicated talk show. This spa treatment is now growing in popularity among non-celebrities, too When you go in for a mineral body wrap, you're wrapped from head to toe in special bandages that contain certain minerals. Then you might sit in a sauna, do some light exercise or just rest under a thermal blanket while you're wrapped up. After an hour or so, the bandages are removed. As a result, you will supposedly see at least some body slimming. Keep Reading Below","Getting Beautiful Skin Image Gallery Many fans of mineral body wraps say the treatment can take inches off their waist. See more pictures of ways to get beautiful skin."
271,"2018-02-05 21:22:29","Mole Removal Overview","Moles are like opinions -- almost everyone has one. In fact, it's normal to have 10 to 40 moles on your skin by adulthood [source: WebMD]. Moles appear when cells grow in clusters instead of spreading throughout the skin. These cells, called melanocytes, make the pigment that gives skin its color, and they can cause moles to darken during teenage years, after sun exposure or during pregnancy [source: WebMD]. Moles can appear anywhere on your body -- from your face to your feet -- and they're typically harmless. However, some moles can be cancerous. Most moles are brown or black in color and smaller than the size of a pencil eraser -- but if your mole doesn't fit this description, that doesn't necessarily mean it's cancerous. However, if your mole is asymmetrical, has an irregular border, is different colors or changes shape, you may want to see a dermatologist [source: American Academy of Dermatology]. Most moles are benign, but a dermatologist will be able to remove the mole and test it to determine if it's cancerous [source: Leffell]. Keep Reading Below","Skin Problems Image Gallery Most moles are benign, but dermatologists can remove moles and test them to determine if they're cancerous. See more pictures of skin problems."
272,"2018-02-05 21:22:34","Mud Baths","Not since the age when you made mud pies have you associated mud with fun. You may think that lolling in dirt can't offer any real benefits, but mud baths are a relaxing way to unwind -- and they're good for you, too. For thousands of years, mud baths have been touted as a cure-all for a number of health ailments. While some of these claims have never been proved, mud baths do have anti-inflammatory properties that make them beneficial [sources: Matz]. They also contain many minerals that can soothe itchy, irritated skin. [source: Bouchez]. In fact, people with conditions, such as psoriasis, rosacea and spondylitis, have found relief from their ailments by taking a dip in these seemingly innocuous dirt-and-water concoctions. Keep Reading Below","Getting Beautiful Skin Image Gallery Mud baths have anti-inflammatory properties, and they contain many minerals. See more getting beautiful skin pictures."
273,"2018-02-05 21:22:35","Oatmeal Baths","There are lots of reasons to love oatmeal. It makes a delicious breakfast, warming you up on cold winter mornings, and it can also be added to pancakes or bread for tasty, fiber-filled versions of some of your favorite foods. If that weren't enough to make you love oatmeal, research shows that it's one of the best foods for lowering cholesterol and helping prevent heart attacks [source: Mayo Clinic]. It turns out oatmeal is just as good for your outsides as it is for your insides. This cereal staple has as long a history in health and beauty treatments as it does on the breakfast table. This is because oatmeal functions as a skin protectant -- it protects the skin from irritants and helps soothe skin that's itchy, painful or irritated [source: Cosmetics Info]. Keep Reading Below","Oatmeal protects your skin and soothes itchy, irritated skin."
274,"2018-02-05 21:22:39","Paraffin Wax Treatments","You see it in candles, crayons and lipstick. As a child, you probably even used it to decorate Easter eggs. It's wax. Wax plays a starring role in beauty treatments as well -- it's a popular way to remove unwanted body hair from legs, arms, chests, eyebrows and bikini lines. But you may not know that wax has another cosmetic use: the paraffin wax bath. Paraffin wax is a mineral wax derived from petroleum [source: Cosmetics Info]. Unlike the wax used for depilatory procedures, which is viscous and sticky to bond to hair and skin, paraffin wax is a soft wax with a low melting point, which means that it melts at a temperature cool enough to safely immerse your skin. Paraffin wax is an emollient approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a treatment to soften and smooth skin [source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration]. Keep Reading Below","Paraffin wax is used as a treatment to soften and smooth skin."
275,"2018-02-05 21:22:41","Pore Strips","Nobody likes blackheads. They're unsightly, and to make matters worse, they tend to pop up on your nose, which just happens to be the centerpiece of your face. If frustrating blackheads are pestering you, pore strips may be just what you need to help make blackheads a thing of the past. Our pores secrete a substance called sebum, or oil, which helps moisturize and protect our skin, but sometimes sebum and dead skin cells can clog our pores, causing acne [source: Gordon]. Blackheads are a type of acne in which the impacted pores push material out through the follicles -- the bacteria's reaction to oxygen causes the black color [source: WebMD]. Because this material emerges from your pores, pore strips can be handy tools. All you have to do is apply one to the affected area, allow it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes and then peel it away. Afterward, if you look closely, you'll be able to see what appear to be tiny hairs stuck to the strip, but they're actually not hairs at all -- they're the sebum and dead skin cells that were clogging your pores [source: Goodheart]. Think of it like waxing -- pore strips just remove blackheads instead of hair. Keep Reading Below","Pore strips may be just what you need to help put your best face forward."