Skin Disorders Dictionary

facial: A. Of or concerning the face. B. A cosmetic treatment of the face that involves a variety of skin treatments including steam, masks, exfoliation and more.

fingerprint: Distinctive curves that are formed by the ridges on the joints of the fingertips and thumbs.

follicle: A small cavity or depression. In dermatology, the term usually refers to a hair follicle, out of which the hair grows.

folliculitis: Used to describe skin conditions that occur due to inflammation of hair follicles.

friction ridge: Occurs on the skin when the papillae projects into the epidermis and forms contours in the surface in the palms, fingers, soles and toes. Friction ridges occur in patterns, allowing humans the ability to grasp.

fungus: Primitive plant-like organisms that include molds and yeasts.

genetic: Describes traits inherited through the genes.

guttate: Small spots that are usually a different color than the surrounding skin.

hair follicles: Located in the dermis layer of the skin.

hydrocortisone: A corticosteroid resembling the natural steroid cortisone.

hyperpigmentation: An increase in melanin in the skin, resulting in darker skin or dark patches.

hypoallergenic: Describing substances unlikely to produce allergic reactions.

immunosuppression: A suppression, either due to disease or medication, of the body's immune system response.

impetigo: A bacterial skin infection common in children. Impetigo causes pustules and oozing skin patches.

inflammation: The body's response to cellular injury (or in the case of autoimmune disorders, perceived injury) resulting in redness, itching and swelling.

ingrown hair: Hair follicles that have not broken through the surface of the skin.