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Medical Dermatology

Keratosis Pilaris

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About Keratosis Pilaris

What is it?

Keratosis pilaris, sometimes called “chicken skin,” is a common skin condition that causes patches of rough-feeling bumps to appear on the skin. Also known as follicular keratosis, this is a hereditary skin disorder that causes goosebump-like lesions on the back of the arms, thighs, or buttocks. The patches of bumps tend to get dry and itchy, particularly during the winter months. Keratosis pilaris occurs at any age. Because it is hereditary, there is no method of prevention. In some cases, it goes away on its own over time; in other cases, the condition is chronic.
Keratosis pilaris is caused by a build-up of keratin, a protein in the skin that protects it from infection. Keratin plugs up hair follicles causing the rough, bumpy rash.
If the itch, dryness, or the appearance of your skin bothers you, treatment can help. A dermatologist can create a treatment plan that addresses your concerns.

Common treatments for Keratosis Pilaris

Treatment options include prescriptions for:
  • Medicated creams or lotions with 12 percent ammonium lactate soften the affected skin.
  • Moisturizers (urea) help loosen and remove dead skin cells.
  • Topical corticosteroids for short-term, temporary relief of symptoms.
  • Topical retinoids increase cell turnover, which reduces the plugging of hair follicles.
To help alleviate symptoms, be sure to keep the affected area moistened at all times and avoid harsh soaps.

Our approach & expertise

We know how keratosis pilaris can impact you, regardless of age. Not only does it affect your skin, but it can also make you self-conscious about your appearance. As your community skin and acne specialists, we’re here to provide support and answer all your questions. Our knowledgeable dermatologic experts work with you to minimize the effects of this condition and offer solutions that can be customized just for you. We’ll also address all of your concerns and provide compassionate support throughout the entire process.
Healthy skin is our passion. Contact us today to find out how we can address your condition to improve both your skin and self-esteem.

Impetigo

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About Impetigo

What is it?

Impetigo is a contagious skin infection caused by bacteria. It develops when the bacteria, usually staph or strep, invade injured skin. A scrape on your skin is often enough to get infected. The bacteria may also get in through a cut, insect bite, or anything else that damages the skin. Once inside, the bacteria cause an infection in the top layers of the skin. Sometimes, the bacteria invade uninjured skin and cause impetigo.
What you see and feel differs with the type of impetigo.
There are several types of Impetigo, non-bullous, bulls, and ecthyma. Non-bullous is the most common type. It starts with one or more sores, which are often itchy, the sores quickly burst, and the skin can be red or raw where the sores have broken open. Your glands near the sores may feel swollen and crusts, usually honey-colored, form. The skin heals without scarring unless scratching cuts deep into the skin
The infection can spread to other areas of the body, where you’ll see this process begin all over again. This is one reason treatment is so important.
Bullous impetigo causes fluid-filled blisters, but without redness on the surrounding skin. When a person has bullous impetigo, you’ll see it progress as blisters that contain a cloudy or yellow fluid. The blisters become limp and transparent and then break open. A crusty sore can form where the blisters have broken open.
Ecthyma can develop when impetigo goes untreated because it goes deeper into the skin.
The difference is the blisters are painful and can turn into open sores that are deep. Thick crusts develop, often with redness on the surrounding skin
Because the infection goes deeper into the skin, you may see scars once the skin heals.
If notice any of these signs on your child’s skin (or your own skin), you should call your dermatologist and make an appointment for treatment.
All types of impetigo are very contagious. Treatment can help clear the infection and prevent the infection from spreading to others.

What causes Impetigo?

Impetigo is a common skin infection, especially in children. It is caused by bacteria. Children aged 2 to 5 years old are most likely to get this extremely contagious skin infection. However, anyone can get impetigo. Older children and adults get it and often catch impetigo from an infected child. Some athletes have a higher risk of catching it, because of the skin-to-skin contact in sports like wrestling and football. The bacteria that cause impetigo thrive in warm, humid places, so swimmers also have an increased risk.
Most people develop it when the bacteria, usually staph or strep, invade injured skin. The bacteria can get in through a cut, an insect bite, or anything else that damages the skin. Once inside, the bacteria cause an infection in the top layers of the skin.

Common treatments

Our team of dermatologists recommends treating impetigo, especially because it is highly contagious. Treatment will depend on your doctor and also the type of impetigo that you have. Most are easily treatable with topical antibiotics. Without treatment, impetigo often clears on its own in two to four weeks. During this time, there is a greater risk of developing complications. You may see new blisters and sores.
It’s also possible for the infection to go deeper into the skin if you don’t treat it. If this happens, you can develop ecthyma. This infection goes deeper into the skin than impetigo. As the skin heals from ecthyma, scars can form. Ecthyma is more common in children, the elderly, and people who have diabetes. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and help you feel better faster.
Schedule an appointment today using our easy online platform, or call us so that we can help you start feeling better.

Hives

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About Hives

What causes it?

Hives are usually allergic reactions to food, medicine, or animals. They can also be triggered by sun exposure, stress, excessive perspiration, or other, more serious diseases, such as lupus. Anyone can get hives. They are harmless and non-contagious. Hives may itch, burn, or sting. They rarely need medical attention as they tend to disappear on their own. However, in persistent cases, your dermatologist will assess the best way to help give you relief.

Understanding Hives

Hives, also known as urticaria, are raised, itchy welts that appear suddenly on the skin. They can vary in size, shape, and location, often moving or fading within hours. While hives may result from allergic reactions, they can also be triggered by infections, stress, temperature changes, or certain medications. At Signature Dermatology in Fort Worth, we specialize in identifying the underlying cause and providing effective treatment to relieve discomfort and prevent recurrence.

Causes and Diagnosis

Our dermatologists perform a thorough evaluation to determine whether your hives are acute (lasting less than six weeks) or chronic (persisting longer). We review your medical history, lifestyle factors, and possible allergens to pinpoint triggers. In some cases, lab testing or allergy assessments may be recommended for further insight.

Common treatments

In persistent cases, your dermatologist may prescribe antihistamines or oral corticosteroids. The best way to prevent hives is to discontinue exposure to the allergic irritant.
If you are experiencing these, come in and see one of our highly trained providers who will prescribe the best remedy for you.

Treatment and Relief

Treatment typically involves antihistamines to reduce itching and inflammation, as well as topical or oral medications for more persistent cases. For chronic conditions, advanced therapies such as biologic injections may be considered.

At Signature Dermatology, we provide personalized care that not only soothes symptoms but also helps prevent future flare-ups. Our goal is to restore comfort, calm irritation, and help your skin return to its natural, healthy state.

Schedule an appointment with us now!

Folliculitis / Ingrown Hairs

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About Ingrown Hairs / Folliculitis

What is it?

Folliculitis is a common skin condition in which hair follicles become damaged and inflamed. It’s usually caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. At first, it may look like small red bumps or white-headed pimples around hair follicles — the tiny pockets from which each hair grows.

Characteristics of Folliculitis

  • Red pimples around areas having hair
  • Inflammation of the hair follicles
  • Caused by infection or chemical or physical irritation (e.g., shaving, fabrics)
  • Higher incidence among people with diabetes, the obese, or those with compromised immune systems

Common Treatments

  • Topical antibiotics
  • Oral antibiotics
  • Antifungal medications
  • Eliminating the causes

Understanding and Treating Folliculitis

Ingrown hairs occur when hair grows back into the skin instead of rising to the surface, leading to red bumps, irritation, and sometimes infection. They commonly develop after shaving, waxing, or other hair removal methods. At Signature Dermatology in Fort Worth, we provide professional evaluation and treatment to relieve discomfort and prevent scarring.

Our dermatologists may recommend topical exfoliants, antibacterial creams, or laser hair removal for long-term prevention. With personalized care and gentle techniques, we help patients achieve smooth, healthy skin while reducing the risk of recurring ingrown hairs.

Our approach & expertise

We know how folliculitis can impact you, regardless of age. Not only does it affect your skin, but it can also make you self-conscious about your appearance. As your community skin and acne specialists, we’re here to provide support and answer all your questions. Our knowledgeable dermatologic experts work with you to minimize the effects of this condition and offer solutions that can be customized just for you. We’ll also address all of your concerns and provide compassionate support throughout the entire process.
Healthy skin is our passion. Contact us today to find out how we can address your condition to improve both your skin and self-esteem.

Hair Loss

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About Hair Loss

What is it?

The average human head has more than 100,000 healthy hairs, and many people have well over 150,000. Typically, you may lose around 50-100 of these hairs every day, which isn’t noticeable. However, once you start to lose well over 100 individual hairs daily, your hair loss starts to affect your appearance. Both men and women are affected by this, but in different ways. For example, while it’s common for men to have a noticeable loss on their hairline or crown, women tend to experience thinning hair in a more random, widespread pattern. Women also usually have localized loss because of repeated hair trauma, such as from hair being pulled tightly back in a ponytail or bun.

What causes Hair Loss?

There are various reasons contributing to this. The most common causes include genetics, frequent stress, poor nutrition, certain medications, emotional issues, and trauma or injury.

Common treatments

The hair loss and skin experts at our dermatology practice have the experience and knowledge to provide you with solutions that stabilize this and help stimulate hair growth. Among these options are Minoxidil, an over-the-counter topical lotion that we also offer in prescription strength; Finasteride, an oral medication; and Spironolactone, another oral medication.

Our approach & expertise

We understand the physical impact that this condition can have on your appearance and its subsequent effect on your self-esteem. As your community skin and hair experts, we’re here to provide support, strength, and answers to all your questions. We have a variety of trained, experienced dermatologic experts and offer treatment options customized just for you. We’ll be with you every step of the way in diagnosing, treating, and helping you deal with this issue.
Contact us today to learn more about your treatment options and to start on the road towards an improved appearance and self-confidence.

Cysts

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About Cysts

What is it?

There are many types of cysts that show up on our skin. A cyst is a sac-like pocket of membranous tissue that contains fluid, air, or other substances. They can grow almost anywhere in your body or under your skin.
There are many types of cysts. Most cysts are benign, or noncancerous.
Cysts can be small round bumps, usually white or yellow. Can form from blocked oil glands, and commonly appear on the face, back, neck or trunk. If a cyst becomes infected it will feel tender and become red. It can produce a thick yellow discharge when squeezed. It is recommended that you schedule an appointment with your dermatologist if you think you have cysts. They will determine a treatment based on the type of cyst that you have.

What causes Cysts?

Cysts are common and can occur anywhere on the body. They are often a result of infection, clogged sebaceous glands, or piercings.
Some other common causes of cysts include:
  • tumors
  • genetic conditions
  • a defect in the cells
  • chronic inflammatory conditions
  • blockages of ducts in the body that cause fluids to build up
  • a parasite
  • an injury that breaks a vessel
In most cases, it is unusual for cysts to cause pain unless they rupture, become infected, or are inflamed.

Common treatments?

The treatment options for a cyst will depend on a range of factors, including the type of cyst, where it is, its size, and the degree of discomfort it is causing. For very large cysts that are causing symptoms, a doctor may recommend surgical removal.
Sometimes, they might drain or aspirate the cyst by inserting a needle or catheter into the cavity. If the cyst is not easily accessible, they may use radiologic imaging to accurately guide the needle or catheter.
Sometimes, a health professional may examine the removed liquid under a microscope to determine whether or not any cancerous cells are present. If they suspect that the cyst is cancerous, they may suggest surgical removal, order a biopsy of the cyst wall, or both.
Many cysts develop as a result of a chronic or underlying medical condition, as may be the case with fibrocystic breast disease or polycystic ovary syndrome. In such cases, the focus of the treatment will be on the medical condition itself, not the cyst.

Our approach & expertise

Cysts are common and affect each individual differently, therefore it is important that we see patients and assess the proper treatment method. Because cysts can also vary in severity, we are careful to treat each one carefully.
We understand how a cyst can be a physical nuisance and even affect your self-esteem. As your experienced community skin experts, we have the knowledge to help you manage this condition. Healthy skin is our passion. Contact us if you have a cyst that you want to eliminate so you can have clear, smooth skin once again.
Schedule an appointment with us now!

Actinic Keratosis

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About Actinic Keratosis

What is it?

Actinic keratosis (ak-TIN-ik ker-uh-TOE-sis) is a rough, scaly patch on the skin that develops from years of sun exposure. It’s often found on the face, lips, ears, forearms, scalp, neck, or back of the hands.
Also known as a solar keratosis, an actinic keratosis grows slowly and usually first appears in people over 40.
You can reduce your risk of this skin condition by minimizing your sun exposure and protecting your skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Left untreated, the risk of actinic keratoses turning into a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma is about 5% to 10%.

What causes Actinic Keratosis?

Actinic keratoses vary in appearance. Signs and symptoms include:
  • Rough, dry or scaly patch of skin, usually less than 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) in diameter
  • Flat to slightly raised patch or bump on the top layer of skin
  • In some cases, a hard, wartlike surface
  • Color variations, including pink, red or brown
  • Itching, burning, bleeding or crusting
  • New patches or bumps on sun-exposed areas of the head, neck, hands, and forearms

Common Treatments?

  • Freezing (cryotherapy). Actinic keratoses can be removed by freezing them with liquid nitrogen. Your doctor applies the substance to the affected skin, which causes blistering or peeling. As your skin heals, the damaged cells slough off, allowing new skin to appear. Cryotherapy is the most common treatment. It takes only a few minutes and can be done in your doctor’s office. Side effects may include blisters, scarring, changes to skin texture, infection, and changes in skin color of the affected area.
  • Scraping (curettage). In this procedure, your doctor uses a device called a curet to scrape off damaged cells. Scraping may be followed by electrosurgery, in which the doctor uses a pencil-shaped instrument to cut and destroy the affected tissue with an electric current. This procedure requires local anesthesia. Side effects may include infection, scarring, and changes in skin color of the affected area.
  • Laser therapy. This technique is increasingly used to treat actinic keratosis. Your doctor uses an ablative laser device to destroy the patch, allowing new skin to appear. Side effects may include scarring and discoloration of the affected skin.
  • Photodynamic therapy. Your doctor might apply a light-sensitive chemical solution to the affected skin and then expose it to a special light that will destroy the actinic keratosis. Side effects may include redness, swelling, and a burning sensation during therapy.

Our approach & expertise

Our practice has skilled dermatologic experts who have the experience and knowledge to provide effective solutions for your particular needs and goals. Our focus on you as a person is what makes us different from others, and we’ll be with you each step of the way with empathy, advice, and support. Healthy skin is our passion. Contact us today if you have actinic keratosis so that we can help you.

Schedule an appointment with us now!

Alopecia Areata

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About Alopecia Areata

What is it?

Affecting nearly 5 million Americans, alopecia areata is a medical condition in which the hair falls out in patches. It is unpredictable; if you have it, your experience may not be the same as someone else’s. For example, you may have hair loss followed by full regrowth while another person may have only partial regrowth. Or your case may last a few months while someone else’s may last several years. In addition to patchy hair loss, other symptoms of this condition include widespread hair loss, nail irregularities (e.g., splitting or changes in color, texture, shape), and single strands of hair in or near the bald patch(es).

What causes Alopecia Areata?

Alopecia areata occurs when your immune system mysteriously attacks hair follicles, causing hair to fall out in clumps. Although the reasons for this are still unclear, it’s thought to be related to genetics.

Common treatments?

Despite there being no known cure for this type of alopecia areata, there are ways to manage the loss of hair and/or help it grow back. Among the options are Minoxidil, an over-the-counter topical lotion also offered in prescription strength; corticosteroids for immune system suppression; Anthralin, a topical medication that disrupts the immune system and promotes hair growth; and Diphencyprone, a topical medication that disturbs the immune system to stop hair loss and stimulate hair growth.

Our approach & expertise

We realize the impact that gradual hair loss can have on both appearance and self-esteem. However, alopecia areata is a different type of hair loss, and as your neighborhood skin and hair experts, we’re here with answers to all your questions about this condition. What sets our skin and hair experts apart is our focus on you as a person. Our neighborhood practitioners customize your treatment, and you can turn to us for compassionate support and advice.
Healthy skin is our passion. Contact us to know more about alopecia areata and how we can help manage this condition to improve your confidence in your appearance.

Acne/Acne Scars

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About Acne

What is it?

Affecting more than 50 million Americans, acne is the most common skin problem in the country. Acne is the result of clogged pores that eventually become small red bumps, or pimples, which can be characterized as blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, pustules, and more. While these blemishes commonly appear on your face, they also can develop on the neck, shoulders, upper arms, chest, back, and buttocks.

What causes it?

When the clogging in your pores builds up too much, they become a breeding ground for P. acnes, the bacteria that cause pimples to develop. However, it’s important to remember what doesn’t cause acne: stress, fried foods and other poor diet choices, poor hygiene, and hormones. While it is true that these things can worsen your acne, there is no truth to the myth that they actually cause the condition.

Common treatments?

Many acne treatments are available, but their efficacy can differ from person to person; what works for you may not work for someone else. Furthermore, some medications and treatments are more effective for milder cases of the condition, while other treatments are better for severe breakouts. Mild or moderate cases of acne (i.e., a few blemishes, whiteheads, and/or blackheads) can be erased with simple over-the-counter medications with benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, or salicylic acid. However, for severe acne cases (red, swollen, often painful blemishes consisting of cysts and/or nodules), an array of treatments can work: these include prescription-strength topical or oral medications, antibiotics to destroy the acne-causing bacteria, a variety of light therapies (including lasers), chemical peels, and drainage and extraction procedures for the most stubborn acne.

Acne Scars

Acne scars are marks left on the skin after acne lesions have healed. They can vary in appearance, depth, and color, and can significantly impact a person’s self-esteem and confidence. Understanding the types of acne scars, their causes, and available treatment options is essential for managing this common skin concern. Here’s a comprehensive overview of acne scars:

Types of Acne Scars:

  1. Atrophic Scars: These are the most common type of acne scars, characterized by a loss of tissue. They can be further categorized into:
    • Ice Pick: Deep, narrow scars that resemble small puncture wounds.
    • Boxcar: Wide, shallow depressions with steep edges, resembling chickenpox scars.
    • Rolling: Indentations with a wave-like appearance, caused by damage to the skin’s underlying structure.
  2. Hypertrophic Scars: These scars are raised and result from an overproduction of collagen during the healing process. They may become less pronounced over time but can be persistent.
  3. Keloid Scars: Similar to hypertrophic scars, keloids extend beyond the original injury site and can be larger than the acne lesion itself. They are more common in individuals with darker skin types.

Causes of Acne Scars:

  • Inflammation: Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, leading to inflammation. The body’s response to this inflammation can damage surrounding skin tissue, resulting in scars.
  • Severity: More severe forms, such as cystic acne, are more likely to cause scarring due to the depth and extent of tissue damage.
  • Picking or Squeezing: Manipulating lesions can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of scarring.
  • Delayed Treatment: Not addressing acne promptly or effectively can lead to more extensive damage and a higher likelihood of scarring.

Treatment Options for Acne Scars:

  1. Topical Treatments:
    • Retinoids: Prescription or over-the-counter retinoids can promote cell turnover, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of scars.
    • Chemical Peels: Mild chemical peels can help exfoliate the skin, improving texture and tone.
    • Silicone Gels and Sheets: These can help flatten hypertrophic and keloid scars by hydrating the scar tissue.
  2. Dermal Fillers:
    • Injectable fillers can temporarily plump up atrophic scars, making them less noticeable. The results typically last several months, requiring repeat treatments.
  3. Microneedling:
    • This procedure involves using a device with fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen production and improving the appearance of scars over time.
  4. Laser Treatments:
    • Ablative Lasers: These remove the outer layer of skin and are effective for deeper scars.
    • Non-Ablative Lasers: These stimulate collagen production without damaging the surface of the skin, making them suitable for less severe scarring.
  5. Subcision:
    • This minor surgical procedure involves inserting a needle under the skin to break up fibrous bands that tether scars to the underlying tissue, allowing them to rise to the surface.
  6. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy:
    • PRP therapy uses the patient’s own blood to inject growth factors into the skin, promoting healing and collagen production.

Our approach & expertise

We know how this can impact you, regardless of age. Not only does it affect your skin, but it can also make you self-conscious about your appearance. As your community skin and acne specialists, we’re here to provide support and answer all your questions. Our knowledgeable dermatologic experts work with you to minimize the effects of this condition and offer solutions that can be customized just for you. We’ll also address all of your concerns and provide compassionate support throughout the entire process.
Healthy skin is our passion at Signature Dermatology. Contact us today to find out how we can address your acne condition to improve both your skin and self-esteem.

Skin Cancer

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About Skin Cancer

What is it?

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the US, affecting around 20 percent of Americans. However, it does not have to be fatal, especially when caught early. That’s why you shouldn’t ignore unusual skin bumps, lesions, discolorations, and other irregularities when they appear. Although the causes of skin cancer vary, there are common risk factors to be aware of, which include chronic sun exposure, a family history of skin cancer, fair skin, multiple sunburns throughout your life, precancerous skin lesions, and sunny and/or high-altitude climates and locales.

What causes Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is caused by mutations in the DNA of skin cells, which then spreads to adjacent cells. When the spread is rapid or uncontrolled, it can easily become malignant. Three types of this disease are prevalent. The first is squamous cell carcinoma, which is located in cells just beneath the skin surface. The second is basal cell carcinoma (the most common type of skin cancer) which develops in the layer beneath squamous cells. Lastly, there is melanoma, the most dangerous variant. Melanoma forms under the other two layers of cells. A precancerous lesion, actinic keratosis (AK), also is possible; it usually is not life-threatening, but it can become cancerous if ignored.

Common treatments

Our experts at Signature Dermatology have the experience and training to help you overcome this disease. We highly recommend regular skin cancer screenings, especially if you are prone to the above risk factors. If a carcinoma is found, we’ll discuss the best solution with you from among the following treatment options: excisional surgery, electrodesiccation and curettage (EC&D), cryotherapy, and Mohs micrographic surgery.

Our approach & expertise

We provide an assortment of treatment options that can be customized to suit your needs based on your goals, concerns, and opinions about which treatment is right for you. We’ll be with you throughout the process with compassionate care and support so you can have your life back and live it to the fullest. We understand that a diagnosis can be traumatic and painful, both physically and emotionally. As your community skin cancer specialists, we’re here to provide encouragement, advice, and answers to your questions should you ever receive such a diagnosis. What sets us apart is our focus on you as a person. Our warm, compassionate practitioners are ready to address your concerns to be here as an essential part of your support.

Schedule an appointment with us now!