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Stretch marks: Why they appear and how to get rid of them
What exactly is a stretch mark? ... Stretch marks fade with time; however, treatment may make them less noticeable more quickly. ... A stretch mark is a type of scar that develops when our skin stretches or shrinks quickly. The abrupt change causes the collagen and elastin, which support our
Scars and stretch marks
If you have a scar or stretch marks that bother you, a cosmetic treatment can help. Find out what results you can expect and what you should know before getting treatment. ... 10 things to know before having laser treatment for a scar To get impressive results and avoid serious
Microneedling can fade scars, uneven skin tone, and more
What is microneedling? ... Microneedling is a medical treatment that uses tiny needles to puncture the skin. Dermatologists use it to diminish: ... Acne scars ... Dark spots ... Large pores ... Melasma ... Sagging skin ... Scars due to surgery or an injury ... Stretch marks ... Uneven skin
Debbie’s personal story
Mark Mulqueen ... This is a picture of my brother being taken for his first ride on his brand new Harley he purchased three months before he passed away. He is in the middle in the urn. He just wanted to ride his new bike that had only 3 miles
Mark D. Kaufmann, MD, FAAD, assumes presidency of the American Academy of Dermatology
BOSTON (March 25, 2022) — At the close of the American Academy of Dermatology’s (AAD) Annual Meeting, board-certified dermatologist Mark D. Kaufmann, MD, FAAD, will begin his one-year term as president of the AAD. ... As president, Dr. Kaufmann will lead the world’s largest dermatologic society, representing more than 20,500
Mark D. Kaufmann, MD, FAAD, elected American Academy of Dermatology president for 2022
ROSEMONT, Ill. (April 15, 2020) — Board-certified dermatologist Mark D. Kaufmann, MD, FAAD, has been elected to lead the American Academy of Dermatology. He will be installed as president-elect in March 2021 and hold the office of president for one year beginning in March 2022. ... As president, Dr. Kaufmann
Mel’s personal story
My parents took us camping a lot but did not understand the importance of having sun tan lotion. Even in my twenties, I would be so focused on bicycling to the goal I forgot to re-apply my cheap sun lotion every two hours. On a horseback riding trip I got
Abbe's personal story
My generation, we started sitting in the sun with baby oil with sun reflectors. Damage was done...there was no looking back. As I got older and the media and dermatologists started to speak about skin cancer, I became more aware and started doing my own skin checks and being diligent
Edward's personal story
My wife, Theresa, became concerned about the possibility of skin cancer, and after checking, it was discovered that she needed a Mohs procedure. It was successful and she wanted me to have an examination also, but I was not interested. I thought I didn't have skin cancer, other people did.
Julia’s personal story
In April 2008 I had a suspicious mark on my shoulder that turned out to be melanoma. After surgery and a sentinal node biopsy, it was determined that one of my lymph nodes had the disease. I did a year of Interferon shots at home. In May 2009, the melanoma
American Academy of Dermatology’s statement on the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s report on environmental impact of currently marketed sunscreens and potential human impacts of changes in sunscreen usage
Statement from Mark D. Kaufmann, MD, FAAD, president of the American Academy of Dermatology ROSEMONT, Ill. (Aug. 9, 2022) — The American Academy of Dermatology supports the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s recommendation that the U.S. EPA conducts an ecological risk assessment of UV filters to characterize possible
Our donors
We welcome this year's generous donors into the following giving societies and thank them for their commitment to advancing the programs and services of the Academy, especially those who have given consecutively for the past 5+ years. ... 1938 Legacy Society (Transformational gift) ... Bruce D. Glassman, MD, FAAD ...
Amy's personal story
Melanoma leaves a lasting mark on an individual, even for those who live with the promise of survival. The unfortunate reality is rooted in coping with the thought of it returning and the battle ahead, a combination that often causes depression and anxiety. This inspired me to create an online
American Academy of Dermatology elects new officers, board members
ROSEMONT, Ill. (April 15, 2020) — The American Academy of Dermatology has announced the results of its annual election. The Academy’s new officers and board members will lead the world’s largest dermatologic society, representing more than 20,500 physicians who specialize in the diagnosis and medical, surgical, and cosmetic treatment of
Birthmarks: Overview
What exactly is a birthmark? ... If your baby has a birthmark, you’ll likely see a spot, patch, or lump that looks different from the rest of your baby’s skin. You may see this when your baby is born. Some birthmarks appear shortly after birth. ... Birthmarks come in many
Wisconsin physicians honored for cross specialty collaboration to advance skin cancer treatment
Doctors at the University of Wisconsin implemented a coordinated, multidisciplinaryapproach to skin cancer treatment ROSEMONT, Ill. (Sept. 18, 2019) — The American Academy of Dermatology has honored dermatologist Gloria Xu, MD, PhD, FAAD, and oncologist Mark Albertini, MD, as Patient Care Heroes for their leadership in launching a melanoma tumor
Birthmarks: Who gets and causes
Who gets birthmarks? ... Birthmarks are common. Research shows that about 10% of babies are born with a type of birthmark known as a hemangioma (he-man-gio-ma). ... Most hemangiomas go away on their own by the time a child is 10 years old. Many disappear sooner. ... Babies may be
American Academy of Dermatology installs new officers, board members
BOSTON (March 25, 2022) — Immediately following the American Academy of Dermatology’s Annual Meeting, three new officers and four new board members will be installed to help lead the world’s largest dermatologic society and represent more than 20,500 physicians who specialize in the diagnosis and medical, surgical, and cosmetic treatment
Mark’s personal story
In September 2007, I noticed a lump in my neck. I felt fine, but went to my GP right away. She took no chances and had a CT scan done within five days, she called me and said you need a neck biopsy ASAP. Again I was feeling fine, but the
Scars: Signs and symptoms
Scars come in many shapes and sizes. If you have two or more scars, you may notice that the two scars look very different. This happens because so much affects what a scar looks like, including the: ... Cause (accident, acne, burn, surgery, etc.) ... Wound (size and how deeply
Dry, scaly, and painful hands could be hand eczema
How to prevent and treat hand rashes ... Hand rashes can be frustrating, especially when the cause of your rash is unknown. To help prevent a hand rash, dermatologists offer these tips. ... Is the skin on your hands dry, thick, and scaly? Do you have deep, painful cracks on
What we do
AAD cares about the future of the specialty ... Your generosity helps ensure the future of the specialty remains strong. From providing leadership training to help make dermatologists successful, to mentoring opportunities that allow invaluable knowledge and expertise to be passed along, AAD programs and services support dermatologists for their
Cosmetic treatments
The results you see after having a cosmetic treatment depend largely on the skill and knowledge of the person performing the treatment. Board-certified dermatologists receive many years of education and training, which gives them expertise in this area. Some dermatologists continue their studies in this area so that they can
Psoriasis treatment: Corticosteroids you apply to the skin
Checking response to treatment with a corticosteroid: This medicine helps clear stubborn patches and is the #1-prescribed treatment for psoriasis. ... Corticosteroids come in different strengths, ranging from very mild to extremely strong. You can buy a very mild corticosteroid without a prescription. Stronger corticosteroids require a prescription. ... Why
Start the new year off with a fresh start (and skin)
Advice from a board-certified dermatologist on seeking cosmetic treatments ROSEMONT, Ill. (January 9, 2024) — With a rise in both public accessibility and visibility, cosmetic treatments are more popular than ever. Whether your New Year’s resolution is to improve your health or to look and feel your best, the most
Signs of Lyme disease that appear on your skin
Signs of Lyme disease ... If you see a rash or another sign of Lyme disease on your skin, see your primary doctor right away. When caught early and treated, Lyme disease can be cured with antibiotics and most people recover fully. ... Lyme disease is caused by a bite
Melanoma can be missed if you don’t check for skin cancer
Patient story ... Andy Jacobs knows how easy it is to miss a cancerous spot on your skin. Days before being diagnosed with melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, he was unaware that he had a cancerous growth on his skin. ... Fortunately, his wife, Monica, knew the
Resident Education Grant – American Academy of Dermatology
You’ve built your career on a strong foundation beginning with the AAD Annual Meeting. Here is your chance to help the next generation. ... You know how important the Annual Meeting has been for you – both personally and professionally. The meeting is packed with insight, connections, and learning that will
Kate’s personal story
Like many people, I love the sun, the beach, and being outdoors. It feels good to lie out and be warmed by the sun and have it tan our skin. As a teen, I never thought basking in the sun and bronzing my skin could be so destructive, so ugly. I'm kicking myself now because I
Camp Discovery for kids
Camp Discovery offers children living with a chronic skin condition a one-of-a-kind camp experience. ... Provided at no cost to the families, Camp Discovery is one week of fun for kids with conditions ranging from eczema and psoriasis, to vitiligo and alopecia, to epidermolysis bullosa and ichthyosis. ... 2024 Camp
Dermatologists team up to provide shade in Florida
When Florida Academy of Dermatology (FAD) members, led by Cyndi J. Yag-Howard, MD, FAAD, learned of an available matching grant from AAD and Neutrogena to build shade structures, they jumped at the chance to provide shade at a local aquatic center in Naples, Florida. Dr. Yag-Howard's story ... On Feb.
10 surprising facts about indoor tanning
Is a tanning bed really safer than the sun? Will indoor tanning help your body make all of the vitamin D it needs? Findings from years of scientific studies have answered these and other burning questions about indoor tanning. ... Here are 10 research-backed facts that may surprise you. ...
Birthmarks: Tips for managing
3 tips for anxious parents ... Seeing a birthmark on your newborn’s skin can be worrisome. Here’s what dermatologists recommend if your child has a birthmark: ... See a dermatologist for a birthmark exam. Most birthmarks are harmless, but having a dermatologist examine it as soon as you notice it
Embrace your appearance!
Medical student Casey Paul Schukow helps teach local summer camp kids how to appreciate their skin. Casey's story ... Casey Schukow is currently a fourth-year medical student at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MSUCOM). ... "I learned about the dermis today," one of the campers stated after a
San Francisco dermatologist advances innovative treatment on FDA committee
American Academy of Dermatology honors Dr. Kenneth Katz as National "Patient Care Hero" ROSEMONT, Ill. (April 11, 2022) - San Francisco board-certified dermatologist Kenneth Katz, MD, MSc, MSCE, FAAD, was named an American Academy of Dermatology ... Patient Care Hero for his work leading a national advisory committee at the
Joy in life epitomized by AAD Camp Discovery
Becky Joseph, a medical student from Lubbock, Texas, loved her time at Camp Discovery. Becky's story ... As a medical student with a passion for dermatology and pediatrics, my decision to attend Camp Discovery, organized by the AAD, was driven by the hope of gaining more insights into these fields.
Microneedling: experienced hands can improve the face
SAN DIEGO (Feb. 16, 2018) — Treatment from a trained doctor provides better results than at-home devices When it comes to microneedling, not all treatments are created equal. At-home devices won’t provide the same effects as an in-office treatment from a board-certified dermatologist. ... "Microneedling that delivers significant, long-lasting
Tips for men: how to shave
SCHAUMBURG, Ill. (Feb. 13, 2018) — There is no shortage of men’s razors and other shaving tools on the market, but do any of them offer the perfect shave? According to dermatologists from the American Academy of Dermatology, it’s less about which tools you use, and more about your shaving
Eczema treatment: Corticosteroids applied to the skin
"My son had terrible eczema as a baby. Nothing would heal his skin. When he saw a dermatologist, that changed. I learned how to apply different topical corticosteroids to his eczema. His skin started to clear. When he had a flare, I used topical corticosteroids and oatmeal baths to clear
Basal cell carcinoma: Signs and symptoms
All content solely developed by the American Academy of Dermatology ... The American Academy of Dermatology gratefully acknowledges the support from ... Regeneron . ... What are the signs and symptoms of basal cell carcinoma? ... Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a type of skin cancer that can show up
Pennsylvania dermatologist goes beyond exam room to help patients access treatment
Dr. Scott Lim Honored for Efforts to Improve Prior Authorization Process ROSEMONT, Ill. (April 14, 2022) - Pennsylvania board-certified dermatologist Scott Lim, DO, FAOCD, FAAD, was named an American Academy of Dermatology ... Patient Care Hero for his extraordinary efforts to get patients access to the medications they need. ...
Skin care tips for men
Skin care tips for men ... When it comes to skin care, men have traditionally kept it simple. However, more men are now pursuing healthier, younger-looking skin, making it a great time for men to evaluate their skin care routine. To help men develop healthy skin care routines, dermatologists recommend
Dermatology appointment leads to life-saving cardiac care
American Academy of Dermatology honors Dr. Christopher Bengson as national "Patient Care Hero" ROSEMONT, Ill. (November 10, 2022) — Christopher Bengson MD, MHS, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist for the Indian Health Service in Phoenix, Ariz., and a Commander in the U.S. Public Health Service, was named an American Academy of
Ohio dermatologist aims to protect youth from tanning bed dangers
American Academy of Dermatology honors Dr. Shannon Trotter as National "Patient Care Hero" ROSEMONT, Ill. (April 13, 2022) - Ohio board-certified dermatologist Shannon Trotter, DO, FAOCD, FAAD, was honored as an American Academy of Dermatology ... Patient Care Hero for her efforts to protect teenagers from the dangers of tanning
When is a mole a problem?
Dermatologist examining a new mole ... If you develop a new mole after age 30, a dermatologist should examine the mole for signs of melanoma. ... #1 problem with moles: Melanoma ... While most moles are harmless, you shouldn’t ignore yours. ... Melanoma, the most-serious skin cancer, can begin in
Texas dermatologist recognized for improving the quality of life of a child with rare condition
American Academy of Dermatology honors Dr. John Browning as national "Patient Care Hero" ROSEMONT, Ill. (November 30, 2022) — Board-certified dermatologist John Browning MD, FAAD, FAAP, adjunct associate professor of pediatrics and dermatology at UT Health in San Antonio, was named an American Academy of Dermatology Patient Care Hero for
Yale dermatologist uses innovative treatment to treat child with severe alopecia
American Academy of Dermatology honors Dr. Brett King as National "Patient Care Hero" ROSEMONT, Ill. (April 18, 2022) - Connecticut board-certified dermatologist Brett King MD, PhD, FAAD, was named an American Academy of Dermatology ... Patient Care Hero for pioneering an innovative new treatment for severe dermatologic conditions that are
D.C. dermatologist plays leading role in COVID-19 testing for vulnerable communities
Ensuring access to testing amid the pandemic American Academy of Dermatology honors Dr. Ginette Okoye with national "Patient Care Hero" award The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) named board-certified dermatologist Ginette Okoye, MD, FAAD, a ... Patient Care Hero for establishing a dedicated COVID-19 community testing site in a historically
How to prevent premature skin aging
Tips from board-certified dermatologists ROSEMONT, Ill. (Feb. 25, 2021) — As people age, it’s natural to experience thinner, drier skin and an increase in wrinkles and other signs of aging. However, sometimes one’s environment and lifestyle choices can cause the skin to age prematurely. Although there is no way to
10 hair-care habits that can damage your hair
How to style hair without damage ... How you style your hair can cause hair to look brittle, frizzy and lackluster, or even fall out. Follow these tips from dermatologists to help style your hair without causing damage. ... In our quest for beautiful hair, we often do things that
How to stop damaging your hair
Hair breakage can leave a person with frizzy, unhealthy looking hair. ... In our quest for beautiful hair, we often do things that damage our hair. Damaged hair is fragile, so it tends to break. Hair breakage can leave us with frizzy, unhealthy-looking hair. If we continue to damage our
Sarah’s personal story
Sarah Renema's Grandfather ... I was recently asked to write a story about one of my favorite men, and I couldn’t be happier to do so. While I find myself referencing this man as "my Grandpa," as if he is mine and only mine, I realized that he is so
Keloid scars: Signs and symptoms
Where do keloids develop on the body? ... Most develop in one of these areas: ... Ear or earlobe ... Jawline ... Chest ... Upper back ... Shoulder ... Because a keloid develops after you injure your skin, you can get this scar elsewhere. For example, a woman who has
Can a woman treat psoriasis while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Psoriasis can change during pregnancy: Many women find they have less psoriasis during pregnancy. Psoriasis may also stay the same or worsen. ... Yes, it’s possible to treat psoriasis while pregnant or breastfeeding. A woman must avoid some treatments because they can harm her baby. Others can be prescribed. ...
3 techniques that can strengthen eczema treatment
Soak and smear ... Child soaks in a tub of plain lukewarm water for up to 20 minutes. ... After the child gets out of the tub, you smear your child’s medicine onto the eczema while the skin is still wet. ... You soak and smear as often as directed
Scleroderma: Signs and symptoms
What are the signs of scleroderma? ... Scleroderma has many signs and symptoms. The following images let you see some of the ways it can affect your skin. ... Hard, thickening, or tight skin ... This trait is what gives scleroderma its name. Some people develop 1 or 2 patches
American Academy of Dermatology issues updated guidelines for the management of atopic dermatitis in adults with topical therapies
Both well-established and newer topical treatments addressed ROSEMONT, Ill. (January 11, 2023) — Often called eczema or atopic eczema, atopic dermatitis is a common skin condition, affecting 1 in 10 Americans. Although atopic dermatitis occurs most frequently in children, it also affects adults and can have a significant impact on
How to heal warts more quickly and prevent new ones
If someone in your family gets a wart, you can help it go away more quickly and prevent new warts from developing. Here’s what board-certified dermatologists recommend. ... Two tips for healing warts more quickly ... Treat the wart. When someone has a healthy immune system, a wart will often
Razor bump remedies for men with darker skin tones
Also known as shave bumps or barber’s bumps, razor bumps are common in people who shave. These bumps are especially common in men who have a darker skin tone. Some men live with constant discomfort and countless bumps in their beard area. Dermatologists say it doesn’t have to be that
Hidradenitis suppurativa: Overview
Many people have never heard of hidradenitis suppurativa ... During their first appointment with a dermatologist, patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) often say they have pimples, sores, or lumps on their armpits or groin. ... Hidradenitis suppurativa ... What is hidradenitis suppurativa? Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a skin condition that
New American Academy of Dermatology survey reveals most Americans say sun protection is more important now than five years ago, yet many misunderstand how to protect themselves
Dermatologists urge the public to protect themselves from the sun to reduce skin cancer risk ahead of Melanoma Monday (May 2) and Skin Cancer Awareness Month ROSEMONT, Ill. (April 26, 2022) — In a recent survey of more than 1,000 U.S. adults, the American Academy of Dermatology found that while
Scars: Diagnosis and treatment
Why should a dermatologist diagnose what type of scar you have? ... While it may seem obvious that you have a scar, it’s important to have a dermatologist examine it before it’s treated. ... Scars are complex. To treat you safely and effectively, it’s important for the person treating you
COVID Arm: No reason to skip COVID-19 vaccine
Dermatologists understand people are concerned about getting "COVID arm" (also called "COVID vaccine arm") – a rash that can develop on the arm where you got your COVID-19 shot. Seeing a large rash days after getting vaccinated can be scary, but it’s generally nothing to worry about. ... COVID arm
Jennifer’s personal skin cancer survivor story
My name is Jennifer Kowatch. I am 28 years old. I was diagnosed with (stage IIB) melanoma on September 1, 2009, when I was 24 years old. ... I had been noticing this lump at the top of my back, near my neck, for a while. It didn't really look
Personal stories about skin cancer
Professional athletes, celebrities, and other public figures are helping to get the word out abut skin cancer prevention and detection. Learn more about how they are shining a spotlight on skin cancer. ... Former Rep. Brian Bilbray and daughter Briana ... Watch as former U.S. Rep. Brian Bilbray of California