Acne
Acne is caused by oil trapped in ducts beneath your skin, not by dirty skin, long hair, chocolate, or poor hygiene. On your face alone, 15,000-20,000 oil glands work to keep the skin elastic and soft. When the oil cannot rise to lubricate the surface of your skin, it builds up in the ducts, bacteria grow, and inflammation occurs. Acne is most common among teenagers but it can start or continue into adulthood. Many excellent treatments are available to clear acne and prevent scarring.

Psoriasis
Psoriasis–red, scaly patches on the skin–is a genetic disorder. The scalp, elbows and knees are commonly affected, although it can surface anywhere. Arthritis is associated with this rash in 40% of psoriasis patients. Topical creams and ointments are successful in controlling small areas of psoriasis. More severe cases can be treated with ultraviolet light or systemic medications.

Remicade Infusion
A new innovative biologic treatment using IV infusion for the treatment of persistent psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Remicade infusion is a series of 2-3 hour treatments every eight weeks usually achieves clearing after the first treatment. Also decreased inflammation, pain and the unsightly psoriatic plaques. Other biologics available are Enbrel, Humira, and Raptiva.

Contact Dermatitis
Many substances in the environment react with our skin. Some are found in plants, such as poison ivy. Chemicals found in clothing, jewelry, creams and perfumes may cause direct irritation or stimulate an allergic response. The affected skin becomes tender or itchy and, in extreme cases, blisters may appear. If the offending chemical is unknown, allergy testing may be able to identify the cause.