Medical Dermatology

Affecting both teens and adults, acne is a general term for pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, cysts and pustules. These can appear on the face, neck or body. At Scripps, we personalize acne treatment plans for every patient to effectively clear your skin quickly and safely. Our cosmetic dermatologists offer treatment for acne scars.

Skin allergies can take many forms, including rashes, hives, redness, swelling, dry or scaly patches, sores or itchy areas. Our dermatologists can diagnose and treat skin allergies and help you prevent future reactions.

Autoimmune disorders, such as scleroderma, inflammatory bowel disease and psoriasis, can affect the skin as well as other parts of the body. Scripps dermatologists treat these skin conditions and work with you and your primary care physician or specialist to try to minimize symptoms.

Bullous disorders are a group of rare autoimmune skin diseases that cause blistering. Depending on the type of disorder, blisters may form on the skin or on mucous membranes, such as the mouth. The blisters can range from mild to severe. Our dermatologists diagnose bullous disorders and develop treatments plans based on the type, cause and symptoms of the disorder.

A type of skin allergy, contact dermatitis occurs when your skin comes into contact with substances that trigger an allergic reaction, such as poison ivy. Allergens vary widely among people and may include chemicals, fragrances, metals, materials and many more. Our dermatologists treat contact dermatitis with topical or oral medications to help prevent future outbreaks.

Eczema is a skin condition triggered by inflammation that causes the skin to become itchy, dry and red. If the skin becomes infected, blisters or crusty patches may form. Eczema treatment may include steroid creams, oral medications and light therapy; infected skin may need antibiotics. Our dermatologists will assess your skin and recommend a treatment plan.

Lichen planus is an autoimmune inflammatory condition that can affect the skin or mucous membranes. There are several types of lichen planus, but most cause lesions or patches that may itch. Treatment varies depending on each case. Our dermatologists will diagnose your symptoms and determine the best treatment plan for you.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes itchy or sore patches of thick, red, dry skin called plaques. Psoriasis ranges from mild to severe. Treatment may include topical medications applied to the skin, biologic drugs that target the immune system to prevent breakouts and phototherapy, which treats the skin with ultraviolet light. Your dermatologist will determine the best treatment for you.

Rosacea is a common skin disease that appears as facial redness, usually across the nose and cheeks, that may spread to the forehead and chin. Some people may have swelling, acne-like breakouts, visible blood vessels or red eyes. Medication and laser treatments may help relieve rosacea symptoms, and our dermatologists can help you minimize flare-ups by identifying products, foods or other items that may be rosacea triggers. 

An autoimmune disease that affects the body’s connective tissue, scleroderma can cause patches of red or thickened skin. Depending on your individual symptoms, our dermatologists may treat your skin with an anti-inflammatory drug or other medications to relieve scleroderma symptoms.

Vitiligo is a disease that causes the skin to lose its natural color. It can vary from small patches of lighter skin to much larger areas and may even affect hair and eye color. Treatment options may include medications, light therapy or excimer laser therapy. Your dermatologist will discuss the best treatments options with you.