Skin Conditions

Skin changes could indicate an underlying medical problem requiring prompt care, such as skin cancer. In Apple Valley, California, Hisham Abukamleh, MD, diagnoses and treats common skin conditions to make your skin healthier and minimize the risk of infections and other complications. Schedule a skin exam with Dr. Abukamleh by phone or request one online today.

What are skin conditions?

Skin conditions, or skin diseases, affect the health and appearance of your skin. They might be a simple nuisance or indicate a medical problem requiring immediate attention. Some skin conditions are painful or even life-threatening. See Dr. Abukamleh at the first sign of a rash, mole changes, or other unusual symptoms of a skin disease. 

What are examples of skin conditions?

Examples of skin conditions Dr. Abukamleh treats at his office include:

• Acne
• Blisters
• Cold sores
• Warts
• Moles
• Rashes
• Hives
• Rosacea
• Actinic keratosis (crusty skin patches)
• Carbuncle (irritated red lump)
• Allergic skin reactions
• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Cellulitis
• Skin cancer
• Vitiligo (loss of skin pigment)
• Chickenpox
• Ringworm
• Melasma
• Athlete’s foot

Symptoms you may develop because of skin conditions include red dots or patches, itching, burning, skin irritation, discoloration, peeling, sores, or changing moles (an indicator of skin cancer). You might also experience changes in your hair, scalp, or nails.

What increases my risk of developing skin conditions?

Factors that can increase the risk of skin issues include:

• Fungus, bacteria, viruses, or parasites
• Family history of skin problems
• Allergies
• Weak immune system
• Contact with infected skin
• Illnesses
• Unprotected sun exposure
• Diabetes, lupus, or other chronic diseases
• Pregnancy
• Stress

While you can’t always avoid skin diseases, ways to reduce your risk include keeping your skin clean and moisturized, protecting your skin from the sun using sunscreen and protective clothing, and properly managing diabetes or other chronic diseases.

Avoid exposing your skin to harsh chemicals, allergens, or irritating personal care products. Wear footwear while in locker rooms and community showers or saunas.

How are skin conditions diagnosed?

Dr. Abukamleh diagnoses skin disorders by examining your skin and discussing your medical history and symptoms. He might order blood tests or take a sample of the affected tissue during a biopsy and send the tissue to a lab for analysis.

How are skin conditions treated?

Treating skin conditions may involve making lifestyle changes, using over-the-counter medications or creams, or trying prescription medications. You might need a minor procedure to remove a wart or suspicious mole. Other treatments include biologics, laser therapy, and vitamin or steroid injections.

If you have skin cancer, Dr. Abukamleh can refer you to a specialist and provide follow-up care. 

Schedule an evaluation with Hisham Abukamleh, MD, by phone or request one online today to get treated for skin conditions.