Altman Dermatology

A Look at the Types of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disease that typically results in raised, red, and flaky patches of skin. Most individuals will be affected by just one type of psoriasis; however, in rare circumstances, it is possible to be affected by more than one form of this condition.

Plaque Psoriasis

As the most common type of psoriasis, plaque psoriasis affects as much as 80-90% of psoriasis sufferers. The unique symptoms of plaque psoriasis include thick, red patches that are covered with silvery, flaky scales. Most plaque psoriasis sufferers are affected on the elbows, knees, lower back, and scalp.

Guttate Psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis is the second most common form of psoriasis and is characterized by small pink-red patches on the skin that are the size of water drops. Typically, guttate psoriasis affects the torso and limbs. Guttate psoriasis often first appears in childhood or in early adulthood. The symptoms of guttate psoriasis may come on quickly and can be triggered in several ways.

Inverse Psoriasis

Typified by bright red, smooth, and sometimes shiny patches of skin, inverse psoriasis often affects the groin, armpits, and areas of overlapping skin. Sweating and rubbing can aggravate the areas affected by inverse psoriasis due to the location of the patches of affected skin.

Pustular Psoriasis

Pustular psoriasis presents as white blisters of non-infected pus, surrounded by irritated, red skin. Initially, red areas appear and are then followed by pustules and scaling. Pustular psoriasis can be brought on by a wide array of triggers, from pregnancy to the use of systemic medications.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

As the most serious form of psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis should be evaluated by a physician immediately. Erythrodermic psoriasis is typified by inflammatory, fiery redness that affects most of the body. When the patches shed, they do so in sheets as opposed to flakes. In addition, symptoms of a flare-up may include itching and pain, increased heart rate, and swings in body temperature.

If you are showing signs of psoriasis in Arlington Heights, call Altman Dermatology to schedule an appointment with one of our physicians today at (847) 305-1189. Our dermatologists and staff utilize the newest technology and techniques to satisfy your skin care needs.

Reduce the Signs of Aging!

Age, sun exposure, and certain lifestyle factors like smoking can lead to the development of fine lines and wrinkles. Check out these great resources from around the web for more information on common fungal infections of the skin and ways your dermatologist can help reduce the signs of aging. Call Altman Dermatology at (847) 305-1189 to set up a consultation.

• Explore this WebMD.com article for more information on chemical peels. 
• How does microdermabrasion work to improve the look of your skin? Find out with this guide from HowStuffWorks.com.
• This PubMedHealth.gov article provides an overview of athlete’s foot.
• What are the symptoms of jock itch? Visit this link from MayoClinic.com to learn more.
• Check out this article from eMedicineHealth.com for information on the causes and symptoms of skin cancer.

A Quick Introduction to Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a skincare treatment that exfoliates the skin to help reduce the signs of aging, fine lines, and even acne scarring.

This video clip provides an overview of the uses and benefits of microdermabrasion. Unlike other treatments, microdermabrasion is a gentle procedure that requires no downtime or anesthesia. In just 20 to 30 minutes, microdermabrasion administered by a dermatologist can reduce the look of hyperpigmentation, sun damage, wrinkles, and acne scars. Watch this full video for more information.

Get the healthy, youthful skin you’ve always wanted by contacting the Altman Dermatology skincare center at (847) 305-1189. You can also visit our website for more information on our skin cancer treatments.

How A Skilled Dermatologist Can Help You Reduce the Signs of Aging

A dermatologist is a medical specialist who is trained to identify and manage benign and malignant disorders of the skin, hair, and nails. Dermatology clinics also offer a number of cosmetic skin rejuvenation treatments to help reduce the signs of aging.

Chemical Peels

Also known as derma-peeling, a chemical peel is a skincare treatment designed to improve the appearance of the skin using a combination of chemical solutions. Some of the most common types of peels include the following:

• Salicylic acid peel: This peel gently exfoliates dead skin and cleans out clogged pores for an instantly improved skin texture. Salicylic acid may be applied in 10-, 20-, or 30-percent strengths based on your skin type and can be used to soften fine lines, smooth the texture of your skin, and reduce acne breakouts.
• Rejuvenize chemical peel: A combination of salicylic and lactic acids is used to reduce the look of wrinkles and other signs of aging due to sun damage and environmental factors.
• Vitalize chemical peel: This peel uses a combination of salicylic, glycolic, and retinoic acids to reduce the appearance of superficial acne scars, lines, melisma, and sun damage.

Microdermabrasion

Another common anti-aging treatment your dermatologist may provide is microdermabrasion, which utilizes medical-grade crystals to remove the outermost layer of skin and dead skin cells. By revealing new skin cells that are more receptive to nutrients, microdermabrasion treatments can be used to reduce the look of wrinkles, sun-damaged skin, hyperpigmentation, superficial spots, blackheads, and whiteheads.

Injectables

When superficial skin treatments are not enough to combat the signs of aging, you may consider an injectable treatment such as Botox or a dermal filler injection. Botox reduces or eliminates wrinkles by temporarily blocking the nerve signals that allow for muscle contraction. Dermal fillers take a different approach, using natural compounds to plump or “fill” wrinkles and shallow facial contours.

Whether you’re interested in microdermabrasion, chemical peels, or acne treatment, Altman Dermatology  is here to help. Our skincare center also offers skin cancer treatments. Learn more by calling (847) 305-1189.

Common Fungal Infections and How to Treat Them

Fungal infections of the skin are extremely common and tend to be spread through contact with warm, dark, and moist areas, such as shower floors, locker rooms, and public swimming pools. While an experienced dermatologist or skincare center can provide treatment, it is important to be able to recognize and avoid different types of fungal infections of the skin.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is one of the most common fungal infections of the skin. Active individuals, those who wear tight shoes, and individuals who use community showers and pools are at greater risk for contracting athlete’s foot. Individuals with athlete's foot often experience:

• Peeling, scaling, or cracking of the feet.
• Itching or burning sensations.
• Redness.
• Blister formation.

It is important to seek treatment when experiencing these symptoms as the fungus is extremely contagious and over-the-counter remedies rarely treat the source of the infection.

Jock Itch

Jock itch is a mildly contagious fungal infection of the skin that affects the genitals, buttocks, and inner thighs. Symptoms of jock itch include redness, flaking or peeling, burning of the skin, and a circular rash with raised edges. Your dermatologist will often prescribe an antifungal cream or medication to kill the fungal infection and eliminate the symptoms of jock itch.

Ringworm

Despite its name, ringworm refers to a type of fungal infection of the skin rather than an actual worm. This fungal infection can appear anywhere on the body and is characterized by sores that are circular, red, and flat. In the event that prescription topical medications do not provide relief. your dermatologist may prescribe an oral medication.

Learn more about your treatment options for these common fungal infections by calling (847) 305-1189 to set up an initial consultation with Altman Dermatology. Our highly trained dermatologists in Arlington Heights offer a number of treatments for common skin conditions and skin cancer.