Skin Disorders Dictionary

adolescent: A person between the age of puberty and adulthood.

albinism: People with albinism have very little melanin (the pigment that gives skin and hair color). People with albinism have fair skin, light colored or white hair and sunburn easily.

allergen: Any substance that triggers an allergic reaction.

alopecia: Hair loss, usually of the scalp.

antihistamines: Over-the-counter and prescription medications that reduce allergy symptoms by countering histamine, the chemical released during an allergic reaction.

arsenic: A poison that can be absorbed through the skin. Arsenic poisoning causes darkening of the skin, scaly skin and skin cancer.

asteatoic: Dry skin.

atopic: Describes an allergic response to an inhaled allergen.

benign: Describes skin moles and growths that are not malignant cancers.

carbuncle: A skin infection characterized by groups of boils. The boils can cause significant scarring.

carcinogenic: Used to describe any substance that causes cancer.

carcinoma: A malignant tumor growing out of the epithelium, a type of tissue that surrounds and protects other parts of the body.

collagen: A substance found in skin that provides structural support. Collagen declines with age, causing wrinkles.

comedo: A blackhead, or plugged sebaceous gland.

conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the mucus membrane lining the eyes.

corticosteroids: Synthetic versions of cortisol, a natural steroid. Often used to control inflammation.

cyst: A harmless growth in the skin layer. Cysts develop when hair follicles are blocked and include acne and whiteheads.

dander: Shed particles of skin, feathers and fur. Animal dander is a common allergen.

dandruff: Scaly, flaky patches of skin on the scalp.

dermatitis: A dry, itchy red rash often caused by allergies.

dermatologist: A doctor who specializes in skin care and skin disorders.

dermis: The skin's middle layer. The dermis is composed of connective tissue, blood vessels, nerve endings and collagen.

dyschromia: Abnormal skin pigmentation.

eczema: A red rash that itches. Blisters may accompany eczema, and long-term itching can thicken affected skin.

epidermis: The skin's thin outer layer.

erythema: Red skin caused by vascular perfusion or congestion.