Melanoma strikes men harder

By age 50, men are more likely than women to develop melanoma. Sun protection can reduce this risk.

Pathways: Inclusivity in Dermatology to increase number of Black, Latino, and Indigenous physicians in dermatology

American Academy of Dermatology collaboration with Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health and the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson will double representation in next 5 years. ROSEMONT, Ill. (March 23, 2022) — People of color often face unequal access to health care and experience poorer outcomes across the health

Neurodermatitis: Causes

While what causes neurodermatitis isn't entirely known, your risk is higher if you have one of these triggers.

How dermatologists treat acne

Learn how dermatologists can help you treat acne, pimples, whiteheads, zits, and blackheads.

American Academy of Dermatology issues updated guidelines for the management of acne

Both newly approved and well-established treatments recommended ROSEMONT, Ill. (Jan. 31, 2024) — Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting nearly 50 million Americans each year, with symptoms usually beginning in puberty. Acne affects 85% of adolescents and can also often begin or continue in

How to treat acne

Board-certified dermatologist offers skin care advice to help you get the best results from your acne treatment ROSEMONT, Ill. (November 17, 2022) — Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting up to 50 million Americans annually. As your body’s largest organ, it’s important to take

Keloid scars: Overview

A keloid is a type of raised scar. Unlike other raised scars, a keloid grows larger than the wound that caused it.

Qué buscar: ABCDE de melanoma

Un cambio de la apariencia de la piel es el primer signo del melanoma. Por lo tanto, es importante saber dónde aparecen los lunares y su apariencia. Cuando es detectado y tratado adecuadamente antes de extenderse a otras partes del cuerpo, el melanoma tiene un índice de curación alto. Las

Neurodermatitis

If you have an itchy patch of skin that becomes itchiest while you're relaxing, you may have this type of eczema.

Keloid scars: Causes

If you have keloid-prone skin, anything that causes skin to scar can cause a keloid, including piercings and surgery.

Practice management licensing opportunities

Navigating the health care environment can be tricky and difficult to understand. We've designed our practice management content to provide practical, easy-to-understand tools and guidance to help in a variety of areas, including coding and reimbursement, and MIPS.

Michelle's personal story

Read the skin cancer survivor story of Michelle Jones.

Moles: Who gets and types

Learn about the different types of moles and who is likely to have them.

Free skin cancer checks

Millions of people have been educated about the importance of sun protection and early cancer detection through the skin cancer check program. As a result, countless lives have been saved by identifying melanomas in their earliest, most treatable stage.

Scalp psoriasis: Causes

Learn about the causes of scalp psoriasis.

What does psoriasis look like?

Learn how to recognize different kinds of psoriasis.

Pam's personal story

Read the skin cancer survivor story of Pam Roach.

Annie’s personal story

Read the skin cancer survivor story of Annie Appleby.

Megan’s personal skin cancer story

Read the skin cancer survivor story of Megan Sullivan.

Actinic keratosis: Who gets and causes

An actinic keratosis (AK) is a precancerous skin growth that develops on skin that’s been badly damaged by ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun, indoor tanning equipment, such as tanning beds or sunlamps.

Skin cancer types: Melanoma Causes

Learn what causes melanoma and why some people have a higher risk of developing it.

When does a person get psoriasis?

There are two peak times in a person's life when psoriasis is most likely to develop. Learn if you are in one of these age groups.

Melanoma resources

Find resources on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of melanoma.

Shingles: Overview

Learn general information about shingles.

Gerald’s personal story

Read the skin cancer survivor story of Gerald Berger.

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis (suh-rye-ah-sis) is a condition that causes the body to make new skin cells in days rather than weeks. As these cells pile up on the surface of the skin, you may see thick, scaly patches. ... Plaque psoriasis is the most common type of psoriasis ... Those thick, scaly

Skin cancer types: Merkel cell carcinoma overview

More people are developing this rare and aggressive skin cancer, which can be mistaken for a pimple. Do you have an increased risk?

Psoriasis: Signs and symptoms

Dry, thick, and raised patches on the skin are the most common sign of psoriasis. These patches are often covered with a silvery-white coating called scale, and they tend to itch.

Psoriatic arthritis: Causes

Learn the causes of psoriatic arthritis.

5 signs your child's mole needs to be checked

Learn about five signs that dermatologists warn are signs that a child's mole should be checked.

Skin cancer fact sheet

Find facts and statistics for reporting about skin cancer.

Sarcoidosis and your skin: Causes

This disease likely starts when a trigger causes the immune system to overreact. See what may trigger sarcoidosis.

Mark’s personal story

Read the skin cancer survivor story of Mark Williams.

Bedbugs: Who gets and causes

Learn about who may get bitten by bedbugs and what scientists understand about the causes.

AAD advertising policies

View the AAD's advertising policies.

Milan’s personal story

Read the skin cancer survivor story of Milan Kesic.

Moles: Tips for managing

Learn about dermatologists' tips for managing moles.

Teaching young girls about their skin, and STEM

Learn how medical student Christine Li helped Girl Scouts of Central & Western Massachusetts learn about skin, hair, and nails through Good Skin Knowledge Program.

Head lice: Tips for managing

Learn about the tips dermatologists recommend for managing head lice.

Bedbugs: Signs and symptoms

Learn about how to recognize the signs and symptoms of bedbug bites and infestations.

Skin cancer types: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans causes

Causes of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans

Head lice: Overview

Learn general information about head lice.

¿Estoy en riesgo de desarrollar melanoma?

Personas de todas razas y colores pueden desarrollar el cáncer de la piel. Cuando se desarrolla el cáncer de la piel en personas con piel oscura, a menudo se diagnostica en una etapa tardía, especialmente el melanoma.

Staying safe, even from the sun

Janelle Khan, an employee at AVDA, saw how important providing shade was for families in need.

JAK inhibitors: What your dermatologist wants you to know

A JAK inhibitor works by reducing the inflammation that fuels diseases like eczema, psoriatic arthritis, and vitiligo.

Scabies: Overview

Scabies is caused by the human itch mite. Here, you'll find dermatologists' insight that can help you find out if you have scabies and how to treat it.

Jodie’s personal story

Read the skin cancer survivor story of Jodie Walburn.

Skin cancer types: Merkel cell carcinoma signs & symptoms

Merkel cell carcinoma signs and symptoms

Mailing lists

The Academy's membership list is more current and accurate than any other dermatology list available in the market.

What increases your risk of getting melanoma?

More people are developing melanoma, the most-serious skin cancer, than ever before. Do you know what increases your risk of getting this sometimes deadly skin cancer? You can find out by taking this quiz.

Brittany Arthur's personal skin cancer story

Read the skin cancer survivor story of Brittany Arthur.

Bedbugs: Overview

Learn general information about bedbugs and how difficult they can be to clear from a dwelling.

Should I get genetic testing for melanoma?

Before getting a genetic test for melanoma, here are some facts you should know.

October is Eczema Awareness Month | American Academy of Dermatology

Accurate information can help people better manage their eczema and get proper care.

Treating light spots in brown or black skin

Dermatologist Nada Elbuluk, MD, tells you how to safely even out your skin tone when light spots appear.

Pemphigus: Who gets and causes

Learn about who gets pemphigus and what dermatologists understand about the causes.

Kim’s personal story about skin cancer

Read the skin cancer survivor story of Kim Ree.

Stasis dermatitis

Stasis dermatitis is a common type of eczema that can develop where you have poor circulation, like your lower legs.

Stasis dermatitis: Causes

This disease develops where you have poor blood flow. See what else can increase your risk.

Shingles: Who gets and causes

Learn about who gets shingles and what dermatologists understand about the causes.

Hair loss: Overview

Learn general information about hair loss.

Psoriasis treatment: “Off-label” medicines that work throughout the body

Learn how off-label medicines may be used to treat psoriasis.

Coming together to raise awareness and funds for skin cancer prevention programs

Learn how AAD member Sarah Jackson, MD, FAAD, loved getting her high school daughter and their community involved with the AAD’s Skin Cancer, Take a Hike!™

Digital media kit: DermWorld classified rates

DermWorld is published monthly by the American Academy of Dermatology to a circulation of more than 16,000 U.S. AAD member dermatologists, which includes all dermatology residents.

Scars: Diagnosis and treatment

Learn about how dermatologists diagnose and treat scars.

Pemphigus: Signs and symptoms

Learn about how dermatologists identify the signs and symptoms of pemphigus.

5 common sunscreen mistakes — and how to avoid them

Sunscreen is a vital tool in the fight against skin cancer, however, it needs to be applied correctly. Follow these tips from dermatologists to avoid common sunscreen mistakes.

Scleroderma: Who gets and causes

Learn about who gets scleroderma and what dermatologists know about the causes.

Psoriasis treatment: A retinoid you apply to the skin

Learn how applying a retinoid to the skin can help treat psoriasis.

Actinic keratosis: Overview

Description of page

Stubborn acne? Hormonal therapy may help

Read how hormonal therapy may help to clear acne and how a dermatologist can help.

Melanoma fact sheet | AAD

Find facts and statistics for reporting about melanoma skin cancer.

Do you have hair loss or hair shedding?

Learn how to distinguish between shedding and hair loss.

Nummular eczema: Causes

Nummular eczema seems to develop after something triggers it. Here’s a list of common triggers.

Acne keloidalis nuchae: Causes

Close-shave haircuts, helmets, and hard hats can irritate the back of the neck, triggering acne keloidalis nuchae.

How to spot a precancerous growth on your skin

If you have any growths on your skin that look like these, you may have a precancerous growth called actinic keratosis (AK).

Skin conditions by the numbers

Find facts and statistics for reporting about dermatology and dermatologic conditions.

Sarcoidosis and your skin: Overview

Sarcoidosis is a rare disease that causes non-cancerous growths that can develop on the skin and inside the body.

Scabies: Signs and symptoms

Learn about the signs and symptoms of scabies.

The Academy’s impact

Through AAD humanitarian programs, we carry out our commitment to educate the public about healthy skin, hair, and nails in an effort to motivate them to take positive action in improving their quality of life, and in the case of skin cancer, save lives. Additionally, we recognize the importance our

5 facts you should know about precancerous skin growths

If your dermatologist tells you that you have a precancerous skin growth, it means one thing. Your skin has been badly damaged by the sun, indoor tanning, or both. The good news is that it’s not too late to do something about this damage and protect your health.

American Academy of Dermatology launches innovative project to improve outcomes for patients with life-threatening pustular psoriasis

Rosemont, Ill. (June 22, 2023) – The American Academy of Dermatology, with critical support from Boehringer Ingelheim, and powered by OM1’s data aggregation system and its PhenOM ... ™ ... artificial intelligence (AI) platform, is launching an innovative breakthrough project to develop educational resources to improve the evaluation, diagnosis, and

Nail fungus: Causes

The fungi that cause nail fungus thrive in warm, moist places like people’s skin, nails, and pool decks.

Skin care tips for men

Learn about what dermatologists recommend for skin care tips for men.

Prurigo nodularis: Causes

Research suggests the nerves and immune system play a role in causing prurigo nodularis.

Melanoma during pregnancy: What it means for you and your baby

Melanoma can be treated safely during pregnancy. Your dermatologist will explain the risks and benefits of the recommended testing and treatment options.

Psoriasis treatment: Apremilast

Learn how apremilast may be used to treat psoriasis.

Skin cancer types: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans signs & symptoms

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans signs and symptoms

FAQs: Benzene in acne products containing benzoyl peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide can break down in benzene in high temperatures or when stored for too long.

7 ways to find peace of mind after a melanoma diagnosis

It’s natural to worry after being diagnosed with melanoma. Getting help dealing with worry and other emotions can bring peace of mind.

Bedbugs: Diagnosis and treatment

To look for bedbugs, check the places that people sleep. Signs include a sweet, musty odor.

Lasers and lights: How well do they treat rosacea?

Learn options for laser or light treatments to help relieve your rosacea.

Skin reactions to COVID-19 and its vaccines

Board-certified dermatologist provides the latest information on how COVID and its vaccines affect people’s skin BOSTON, MA (March 25, 2022) —When the pandemic began, everything about COVID-19 was new and unknown, including the correlation between COVID and the skin. Thanks to a comprehensive COVID-19 dermatology registry, dermatologists now have gathered

Head lice: Diagnosis and treatment

Find and treat head lice at home with this expert advice from dermatologists.

Scabies: Diagnosis and treatment

Learn about how dermatologists diagnose and treat scabies.

Can COVID-19 cause hair loss?

If you notice hair loss months after recovering from COVID-19, the cause could be temporary hair shedding.

Rosacea: Symptoms

Rosacea develops on the face, usually across your nose and cheeks.

Does rosacea increase your risk of having a heart attack or stroke?

Find out what scientists have learned about the link between rosacea and heart disease.

Actinic keratosis: Signs and symptoms

Signs and symptoms of actinic keratosis

How climate change and wildfire smoke can impact the skin

Studies show California wildfires led to an increase in the number of patients visiting dermatologists for flares in skin conditions NEW ORLEANS (March 17, 2023) — New research ... 1,2,3 ... shows that as wildfires are increasing in frequency, intensity and extent, and affecting air quality across the U.S., they

American Academy of Dermatology survey shows Gen Z adults at risk for skin cancer due to increasing rates of tanning and burning

Board-certified dermatologist urges sun protection to prevent skin cancer ROSEMONT, Ill. (May 14, 2024)  — A new survey from the American Academy of Dermatology revealed that Generation Z adults, ages 18-26, are at risk for skin cancer due to increasing rates of tanning and burning. To encourage safe sun habits,

Sun exposure taking a toll: new AAD survey shows sharp increase in sun damage across the U.S.

Practice safe sun ahead of Melanoma Monday (May 5) ROSEMONT, Ill. (April 29, 2025) — A recent survey of more than 1,000 U.S. adults showed that nearly all Americans believe sun protection is important, with 1 in 4 citing the influence of a dermatologist as the reason. However, Americans have

Chemical peels: FAQs

To help you decide whether a chemical peel is right for you, the AAD answers frequently asked questions about the procedure.

Is your dry scalp something more serious?

Dermatologists speak to several common—and potentially serious—conditions that could be lurking behind your dry scalp.

Irene’s personal story

Read the skin cancer survivor story of Irene Rezbanyay.

Seborrheic dermatitis: Overview

This common skin condition, called cradle cap in babies, causes a rash that usually develops on the scalp.

Lasers and lights: How well do they treat acne?

Learn how lasers and lights are used by dermatologists to treat acne.

How to pick the right moisturizer for your skin

Board-certified dermatologists weigh in on the best moisturizer for each skin type from very dry to oily.

What can get rid of age spots?

If you feel that age spots are telling people you’re past your prime, you may be able to fade those spots significantly. Sometimes, you can even get rid of them.

Transform your skin health: diet and lifestyle take center stage at 2025 AAD Annual Meeting

ORLANDO, FL (March 7, 2025) — The 2025 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting will take place March 7-11 in Orlando. The meeting will feature nearly 300 educational sessions with more than 1,700 speakers discussing the latest research on skin, hair, and nails, including topics on how diet and lifestyle

Scalp psoriasis: Shampoos, scale softeners, and other treatments

Learn about shampoos, scale softeners, and other treatments for scalp psoriasis.

Is platelet-rich plasma the secret to younger-looking skin?

Also known as the “vampire facial,” platelet-rich plasma (PRP). If you’re considering getting a vampire facelift, here’s what you should know.

Isotretinoin patient safety

Isotretinoin is strong medicine. It has the potential to cause some serious side effects. That’s why dermatologists carefully evaluate each patient. Learn important information about isotretinoin and patient safety.

Nummular eczema: Diagnosis and treatment

With proper treatment, nummular eczema can clear. Here’s what dermatologists may include in a treatment plan.

Misinformation puts over 16 million Americans at an increased risk for skin cancer

New data from the American Academy of Dermatology reveals misinformation drives adults to cut back or stop using sunscreen Survey data show influence of social media, misconceptions, and gaps in sun safety knowledge – especially among Gen Z Gen Z is flunking sun safety, with one-third scoring a D or

Chronic spontanous urticaria: Effective treatment possible

Dermatologists reveal how they successfully treat a type of hives called chronic spontaneous urticaria.

How to care for your skin in your 60s and 70s

During our 60s and 70s, the many changes transforming our skin can feel inevitable, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with them. The right skin care can improve how your skin feels — and looks.

10 reasons your scalp itches and how to get relief

When your scalp itches, it can be difficult to think about anything else. You may feel that the itch will never stop, but relief is possible. Getting rid of the itch begins with finding out why your scalp itches. Here are 10 reasons for an itchy scalp along with dermatologists’

What should I eat if I have psoriasis?

Diet may help reduce psoriasis; however, no one diet seems right for everyone. Here’s what the research shows.

Indoor tanning fact sheet

Find facts and statistics for reporting about indoor tanning.

Tattoo removal: Lasers outshine other methods

If you’re thinking about removing either, you should know one key fact: Lasers have largely replaced other tattoo-removal methods.

What is male pattern hair loss, and can it be treated?

If you have male pattern hair loss, you can treat it. Discover what can halt hair loss and sometimes regrow hair.

Signs of Lyme disease that appear on your skin

Learn how dermatologists identify the signs of Lyme disease on your skin.

Can anything prevent my child from getting eczema

As the number of children who develop atopic dermatitis (AD) grows, so do the studies looking for a way to prevent it. So far, no one thing guarantees your child won’t develop AD, the most common type of eczema. Making some lifestyle changes, however, may reduce your child’s risk. Here’s

Search