Las Vegas Skin & Cancer Clinics

Las Vegas Skin & Cancer Clinics

Fungal Infections of the Skin

by

About Fungal Infection of the Skin

What is it?

Tinea versicolor, sometimes called pityriasis versicolor, is a fungal/yeast skin infection that causes small oval discolored patches to develop on the skin. These patches may be lighter or darker in color than the surrounding skin and most commonly affect the trunk and shoulders. This fungal infections of the skin occurs most frequently in teens and young adults and sun exposure may make it more apparent. Tinea versicolor, which is also called pityriasis versicolor, is not painful or contagious. But it can lead to emotional distress or self-consciousness. Tinea versicolor often recurs, especially in warm, humid weather.

Characteristics

Fungal infections of the skin are common and can affect various parts of the body, including the feet (athlete’s foot), groin (jock itch), scalp, nails, and body (ringworm). These infections are caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, or molds that thrive in warm, moist environments. Symptoms often include red, scaly patches; itching or burning; and, in some cases, cracking or peeling skin. Infections may appear circular (as with ringworm) or develop in moist skin folds. Fungal infections are contagious and can spread through direct skin contact, shared surfaces, or contaminated clothing and towels.

Common Treatments

Treatment for fungal skin infections typically involves topical antifungal creams, lotions, or powders applied directly to the affected area. More stubborn or widespread infections may require oral antifungal medications. Keeping the skin clean and dry is essential for healing and prevention, as fungi thrive in moist environments. In addition to medication, it’s important to avoid tight or non-breathable clothing, change socks and underwear frequently, and avoid sharing personal items. With appropriate treatment and hygiene measures, most fungal infections resolve within a few weeks.

Our Approach & Expertise

We understand how uncomfortable and persistent fungal infections can be, especially when they interfere with daily life or recur frequently. Our team is skilled in identifying the type and extent of fungal infections through careful evaluation and, when necessary, diagnostic testing. We customize treatment plans based on your skin type, infection severity, and lifestyle, and we take the time to educate you on how to prevent reinfection. With a compassionate, whole-person approach, we’re here to help you achieve clear, healthy skin and lasting relief. Whether it’s medical, surgical, or cosmetic dermatology, Las Vegas Skin and Cancer Clinics is here to provide expert solutions tailored to you.

Hair Loss

by

About Hair Loss

What is it?

The average human head has more than 100,000 healthy hairs, and many people have well over 150,000. Typically, you may lose around 50-100 of these hairs every day, which isn’t noticeable. However, once you start to lose well over 100 individual hairs daily, your hair loss starts to affect your appearance. Both men and women are affected by this loss but in different ways. For example, while it’s common for men to have a noticeable loss on their hairline or crown, women tend to experience thinning hair in a more random, widespread pattern. Women also usually have localized loss because of repeated hair trauma, such as from hair being pulled tightly back in a ponytail or bun.

What causes it?

There are various reasons contributing to this. The most common causes include genetics, frequent stress, poor nutrition, certain medications, emotional issues, and trauma or injury.

Common treatments

The hair loss and skin experts at our dermatology practice have the experience and knowledge to provide you with solutions that stabilize loss and help stimulate hair growth. Among these options are Minoxidil, an over-the-counter topical lotion that we also offer in prescription strength; Finasteride, an oral medication; and Spironolactone, another oral medication.

Our approach & expertise

We understand the physical impact that the loss of hair can have on your appearance and its subsequent effect on your self-esteem. As your community skin and hair experts, we’re here to provide support, strength, and answers to all your questions. We have a variety of trained, experienced dermatologic experts and offer treatment options customized just for you. We’ll be with you every step of the way in diagnosing, treating, and helping you deal with this issue.
Contact us today to learn more about your treatment options and to start on the road towards an improved appearance and self-confidence. At Las Vegas Skin and Cancer Clinics, we treat more than just skin—we care for the people in it, every step of the way.

Calluses and Corns

by

About Calluses and Corns

What is it?

Corns and calluses are thick, hardened layers of skin that develop when your skin tries to protect itself against friction and pressure. They most often develop on the feet and toes or hands and fingers. Corns and calluses can be unsightly.
If you’re healthy, you need treatment for corns and calluses only if they cause discomfort. For most people, simply eliminating the source of friction or pressure makes corns and calluses disappear.
If you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor blood flow to your feet, you’re at greater risk of complications from corns and calluses. Seek your doctor’s advice on proper care for corns and calluses if you have such a condition.

What causes it?

You may have a corn or a callus if you notice:
  • A thick, rough area of skin
  • A hardened, raised bump
  • Tenderness or pain under your skin
  • Flaky, dry, or waxy skin
Corns and calluses are not the same things.
  • Corns are smaller than calluses and have a hard center surrounded by inflamed skin. Corns tend to develop on parts of your feet that don’t bear weight, such as the tops and sides of your toes and even between your toes. They can also be found in weight-bearing areas. Corns can be painful when pressed.
  • Calluses are rarely painful. They usually develop on the soles of your feet, especially under the heels or balls, on your palms, or on your knees. Calluses vary in size and shape and are often larger than corns.
Pressure and friction from repetitive actions cause corns and calluses to develop and grow. Some sources of this pressure and friction include:
  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes. Tight shoes and high heels can compress areas of your feet. When footwear is too loose, your foot may repeatedly slide and rub against the shoe. Your foot may also rub against a seam or stitch inside the shoe.
  • Skipping socks. Wearing shoes and sandals without socks can cause friction on your feet. Socks that don’t fit properly also can be a problem.
  • Playing instruments or using hand tools. Calluses on your hands may result from the repeated pressure of playing instruments, using hand tools, or even writing.

Common treatments?

Treatment for corns and calluses usually involves avoiding the repetitive actions that caused them to develop. You can help resolve them by wearing properly fitting shoes, using protective pads, and taking other self-care measures.
If a corn or callus persists or becomes painful despite your self-care efforts, medical treatments can provide relief:
  • Trimming away excess skin. Your doctor can pare down thickened skin or trim a large corn with a scalpel, usually during an office visit. Don’t try this yourself because it could lead to an infection.
  • Callus-removing medication. Your doctor may also apply a patch containing 40 percent salicylic acid (Clear Away, MediPlast, others). Such patches are available without a prescription. Your doctor will let you know how often you need to replace this patch. He or she may recommend that you use a pumice stone, nail file or emery board to smooth away dead skin before applying a new patch. You can also get a prescription for salicylic acid in gel form to apply on larger areas.
  • Shoe inserts. If you have an underlying foot deformity, your doctor may prescribe custom-made padded shoe inserts (orthotics) to prevent recurring corns or calluses.
  • Surgery. In rare instances, your doctor may recommend surgery to correct the alignment of a bone causing friction.

Our approach & expertise

Our practice has skilled dermatologic experts who have the experience and knowledge to provide effective solutions for your particular needs and goals. Our focus on you as a person is what makes us different from others, and we’ll be with you each step of the way with empathy, advice, and support. Healthy skin is our passion. Contact us today if you have calluses or corns so that we can help you deal with this often embarrassing condition. From routine skin checks to complex concerns, Las Vegas Skin and Cancer Clinics is your reliable source for trusted dermatologic care.

Schedule your appointment today.

Cellulitis

by

About Cellulitis

What is it?

Cellulitis is a common, potentially serious bacterial skin infection. It often appears red, swollen, and can be painful that is warm and tender to the touch. The skin may look pitted, like the peel of an orange, or blisters may appear on the affected skin. Some people may also develop fever and chills. Cellulitis can appear anywhere on the body, but it is most commonly found on the feet and legs. It occurs when a crack or break in your skin allows bacteria to enter.
If left untreated, the infection can spread to your lymph nodes and bloodstream and rapidly become life-threatening.

What causes it?

Cellulitis occurs when bacteria, most commonly streptococcus and staphylococcus, enter through a crack or break in your skin. The incidence of a more serious staphylococcus infection called methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is increasing.
Although cellulitis can occur anywhere on your body, the most common location is the lower leg. Bacteria are most likely to enter disrupted areas of skin, such as where you’ve had recent surgery, cuts, puncture wounds, an ulcer, athlete’s foot, or dermatitis. Animal bites can cause cellulitis. Bacteria can also enter through areas of dry, flaky skin or swollen skin.

Common treatments?

The great news is cellulitis can be treated in many ways and depends on the type that you have. Your doctor will let you know the best way to get it under control, and quickly. Keeping the area clean and dry is a good idea until it’s treated properly. The area can be treated with oral or topical antibiotics, depending on the severity. At Las Vegas Skin and Cancer Clinics, we combine leading-edge treatments with personalized attention to keep your skin healthy and glowing.

Schedule your appointment today.

Cysts

by

About Cysts

What is it?

There are many types of cysts that show up on our skin. A cyst is a sac-like pocket of membranous tissue that contains fluid, air, or other substances. They can grow almost anywhere in your body or under your skin.
There are many types of cysts. Most cysts are benign, or noncancerous.
Cysts can be small round bumps, usually white or yellow. Can form from blocked oil glands, and commonly appear on the face, back, neck or trunk. If a cyst becomes infected it will feel tender and become red. It can produce a thick yellow discharge when squeezed. It is recommended that you schedule an appointment with your dermatologist if you think you have cysts. They will determine a treatment based on the type of cyst that you have.

What causes it?

Cysts are common and can occur anywhere on the body. They are often a result of infection, clogged sebaceous glands, or piercings.
Some other common causes of cysts include:
  • tumors
  • genetic conditions
  • a defect in the cells
  • chronic inflammatory conditions
  • blockages of ducts in the body that cause fluids to build up
  • a parasite
  • an injury that breaks a vessel
In most cases, it is unusual for cysts to cause pain unless they rupture, become infected, or are inflamed.

Common treatments?

The treatment options for a cyst will depend on a range of factors, including the type of cyst, where it is, its size, and the degree of discomfort it is causing. For very large cysts that are causing symptoms, a doctor may recommend surgical removal.
Sometimes, they might drain or aspirate the cyst by inserting a needle or catheter into the cavity. If the cyst is not easily accessible, they may use radiologic imaging to accurately guide the needle or catheter.
Sometimes, a health professional may examine the removed liquid under a microscope to determine whether or not any cancerous cells are present. If they suspect that the cyst is cancerous, they may suggest surgical removal, order a biopsy of the cyst wall, or both.
Many cysts develop as a result of a chronic or underlying medical condition, as may be the case with fibrocystic breast disease or polycystic ovary syndrome. In such cases, the focus of the treatment will be on the medical condition itself, not the cyst.

Our approach & expertise

Cysts are common and affect each individual differently, therefore it is important that we see patients and assess the proper treatment method. Because cysts can also vary in severity, we are careful to treat each one carefully.
We understand how a cyst can be a physical nuisance and even affect your self-esteem. As your experienced community skin experts, we have the knowledge to help you manage this condition. Healthy skin is our passion. Contact us if you have a cyst that you want to eliminate so you can have clear, smooth skin once again. Whether it’s medical, surgical, or cosmetic dermatology, Las Vegas Skin and Cancer Clinics is here to provide expert solutions tailored to you.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

by

About Basal Cell Carcinoma

What is it?

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is non-melanoma skin cancer caused by mutations in the DNA of skin cells, which then spread to adjacent cells. BCC occurs in the deepest (basal) layer of the skin’s outer layer, the epidermis. BCC is the most common form of skin cancer in the country. It often appears as a flat lesion with a waxy, yet scar-like appearance and usually forms in areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the nose, neck, ears, and scalp.

What causes it?

Though rarely dangerous, basal cell carcinoma should not be ignored. Contact your neighborhood skin health care provider if you notice unusual skin bumps, lesions, discolorations, or other irregularities. Although chronic sun exposure is a leading cause of BCC, other common risk factors include fair skin, a history of sunburns, a history of skin cancer in your family, sunny climates, and high-altitude locations.

Common treatments?

We understand that a diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma can cause apprehension and even be physically and emotionally traumatic. As your community skin cancer experts, we’re here to provide advice and solutions if you ever receive such a diagnosis. We provide a range of customizable treatment options to suit your needs based on your individual goals and concerns. We’ll be with you each step of the way with compassionate care and comprehensive support so you can live your life to the fullest.
If you are found to have basal cell carcinoma, we have a variety of treatment options to choose from. These include topical medications, excision surgery, cryotherapy, electrodesiccation with curettage, photodynamic Therapy (PDT), and superficial radiation therapy (SRT).

Our approach & expertise

Our skin cancer experts have the experience and training to help eliminate basal cell carcinoma. What sets us apart from others is our focus on you as a person. Our warm, compassionate practitioners are ready to address your concerns and be an essential part of your support. Together with you, we find the best solution to address this skin cancer.
Healthy skin is our passion. Contact our skin cancer specialists to get the customized treatment that suits your case. Your journey to healthier skin starts here—with the experienced, caring team at Las Vegas Skin and Cancer Clinics.

Alopecia Areata

by

About Alopecia Areata

What is it?

Affecting nearly 5 million Americans, alopecia areata is a medical condition in which the hair falls out in patches. It is unpredictable; if you have it, your experience may not be the same as someone else’s. For example, you may have hair loss followed by full regrowth while another person may have only partial regrowth. Or your case may last a few months while someone else’s may last several years. In addition to patchy hair loss, other symptoms of this condition include widespread hair loss, nail irregularities (e.g., splitting or changes in color, texture, shape), and single strands of hair in or near the bald patch(es).

What causes it?

Alopecia areata occurs when your immune system mysteriously attacks hair follicles, causing hair to fall out in clumps. Although the reasons for this are still unclear, it’s thought to be related to genetics.

Common treatments?

Despite there being no known cure for this type of alopecia areata, there are ways to manage the loss of hair and/or help it grow back. Among the options are Minoxidil, an over-the-counter topical lotion also offered in prescription strength; corticosteroids for immune system suppression; Anthralin, a topical medication that disrupts the immune system and promotes hair growth; and Diphencyprone, a topical medication that disturbs the immune system to stop hair loss and stimulate hair growth.

Our approach & expertise

We realize the impact that gradual hair loss can have on both appearance and self-esteem. However, alopecia areata is a different type of hair loss, and as your neighborhood skin and hair experts, we’re here with answers to all your questions about this condition. What sets our skin and hair experts apart is our focus on you as a person. Our neighborhood practitioners customize your treatment, and you can turn to us for compassionate support and advice.
Healthy skin is our passion. Contact us to know more about alopecia areata and how we can help manage this condition to improve your confidence in your appearance. Las Vegas Skin and Cancer Clinics offers advanced dermatologic care with compassion, precision, and a commitment to your well-being.

Aging / Sun Damaged Skin

by

About Aging / Sun Damaged Skin

What is it?

We realize that our culture tends to associate suntanned skin with a lifestyle that is healthy and active. Unfortunately, this is a myth that should be retired; sun and age damage go hand in hand and can affect you both physically and psychologically. A “healthy tan” is not good for your skin; any sun exposure, no matter how small, causes irreversible damage. The subsequent damage is not just skin deep, as it alters the DNA of your skin cells. That’s why as much as 90 percent of the signs of aging are related to sun exposure. The sun gives off ultraviolet light that damages the skin and contributes to premature skin aging / sun damaged skin, and other problematic conditions.

What causes it?

The sun’s UV rays are the main cause of aging / sun-damaged skin. Sun and age damage are linked because they exacerbate one another. Together, they reduce your skin’s elasticity by breaking down collagen while decreasing your skin’s shape and fullness. Telltale signs of sun and age damage include wrinkles on your face, neck, and chest, lines around your mouth and eyes, sagging skin, age spots, and freckles and/or moles.

Common treatments?

At West Dermatology, we have a variety of options to address sun and age damage, and we have the knowledge and experience to tailor it to your unique case. However, there are many steps you yourself can take to prevent and even repair your skin. These steps include wearing 30+ SPF sunscreen daily (even on cloudy days!), covering up exposed skin when outside, avoiding intense sun between the hours of 10:00am to 3:00pm, the avoidance of indoor tanning beds, and the use of moisturizing creams and lotions at night.

Our approach & expertise

At West Dermatology, we focus on you as a person. Our compassionate community staff works with you to address your signs of sun and age damage, and you can rely on us to answer your questions and be an integral part of your support system. Healthy skin is our passion. Contact us today if you notice sun and age damage so that we can help you repair and restore your skin. From routine skin checks to complex concerns, Las Vegas Skin and Cancer Clinics is your reliable source for trusted dermatologic care.

Schedule your appointment today.

Actinic Keratoses

by

About Actinic Keratoses

What is it?

Actinic keratosis (ak-TIN-ik ker-uh-TOE-sis) is a rough, scaly patch on the skin that develops from years of sun exposure. It’s often found on the face, lips, ears, forearms, scalp, neck, or back of the hands. Also known as a solar keratosis, an actinic keratosis grows slowly and usually first appears in people over 40. You can reduce your risk of this skin condition by minimizing your sun exposure and protecting your skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays. Left untreated, the risk of actinic keratoses turning into a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma is about 5% to 10%.

Characteristics

These are characterized as rough, scaly patches or lesions that develop on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, ears, scalp, neck, forearms, and hands. They are caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds and are considered precancerous, meaning they have the potential to develop into squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. AKs may appear as flat or slightly raised lesions that are pink, red, or skin-colored and often feel dry or sandpaper-like. While usually not painful, they can become irritated or bleed if scratched. People with fair skin, a history of frequent sun exposure, or a weakened immune system are at higher risk of developing actinic keratoses.

Common Treatments

Treatment of actinic keratoses aims to remove the damaged cells and reduce the risk of progression to skin cancer. Depending on the number, size, and location of the lesions, options may include cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen), topical medications that stimulate the immune system or destroy abnormal cells, chemical peels, photodynamic therapy, or laser resurfacing. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be used for optimal results. Sun protection is a critical part of long-term management, including daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoidance of peak sun hours.

Our approach & expertise

Our practice has skilled dermatologic experts who have the experience and knowledge to provide effective solutions for your particular needs and goals. Our focus on you as a person is what makes us different from others, and we’ll be with you each step of the way with empathy, advice, and support. Healthy skin is our passion. Contact us today if you have actinic keratosis so that we can help you. Las Vegas Skin and Cancer Clinics offers advanced dermatologic care with compassion, precision, and a commitment to your well-being.

Schedule your appointment today.

Psoriasis

by

About Psoriasis

What is it?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder in which your skin produces skin cells much faster than normal. This causes them to build up into thick, flaky, itchy, inflamed patches. There are several types of psoriasis, including plaque, guttate, nail, inverse, and several other types that are rare. Common areas of the body where this can develop include the scalp, torso, arms, thighs, armpits, groin, fingernails, and toenails. There’s also very painful psoriatic arthritis, in which both the skin and the nearby joints are stiff and inflamed. While it is most commonly appears in people between the ages of 15 to 35, approximately 10% of people who develop it will be under the age of 10 when symptoms appear and 4% will have their first sign of psoriasis occur over the age of 60.

External Symptoms

Symptoms of this, especially early on, can be similar to other conditions like eczema or skin allergies. However, as time goes on, the physical symptoms of psoriasis can worsen including itchy, flaking skin that bleeds or cracks and thick, discolored, and/or ridged nails.

Internal Symptoms

Some of the most damaging symptoms of it occur internally with the emotional distress one faces with psoriasis, as well as psoriatic arthritis which occurs in 30% of people who are affected by the disease. Psoriatic arthritis is painful and affects the joints most commonly in the fingers and toes, feet, and lower back. Also, there is a higher rate of heart disease, stroke, and other internal diseases associated with psoriasis.

What causes it?

Genetics and the immune system function play major roles in the appearance of psoriasis. Instead of the immune system protecting the body from viruses, foreign proteins, and bacteria, the immune system in someone with psoriasis “misfires” and attacks healthy cells. This causes inflammation in the skin leading to more rapid growth of skin cells. The increased growth of skin cells requires more blood circulation to feed the process which results in a multitude of psoriatic symptoms.
The genetic predisposition to psoriasis involves the abnormal function of the inflammatory cells called T-lymphocytes, or “T-cells”. While many people live with these abnormal T-cells without having symptoms of psoriasis, there are many situations that can trigger these cells to create the red, scaly patches of psoriasis.

Common treatments

Though psoriasis is not contagious, it is unpredictable. You may heal without warning only to have it return just as quickly or years later. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for psoriasis, but our dermatologists have the knowledge and experience necessary to help you manage your symptoms. Our psoriasis treatment options include topical medications, Vitamin D (steroids or retinol creams/gels), oral treatments, biologic treatments (retinoid pills, chemotherapy medicine), light therapy, and UV-B light (controlled doses of sunlight).

Our approach & expertise

We know that an aggressive and troublesome skin condition like psoriasis can affect you both physically and psychologically. As your community skin specialists, we’re here to provide encouragement and answers to questions you may have about this problematic skin issue. Contact us today if you notice symptoms of psoriasis so that we can help you deal with this unpredictable condition. We provide treatment options that can be tailored to suit your needs and goals, and we’ll be by your side each step of the way, addressing your concerns and providing advice and after-care support. Your skin is our priority at Las Vegas Skin and Cancer Clinics. We’re here to guide you through every step of your dermatology journey.

Schedule your appointment today.