Skin Conditions and Descriptions

actinic keratosis

A rough area resulting from sun exposure, sometimes with a layered scale or scab that sometimes falls off. Can be precancerous.

adult acne

Acne breakouts from hormonal changes or other factors.

asphyxiated

Smokers have _____ skin from lack of oxygen. Characterized by clogged pores and wrinkles; dull and lifeless looking. Can be yellowish or gray in color.

open comedones

Are blackheads and clogged pores caused by buildup of debris, oil, and dead skin cells in the follicles.

closed comedones

Are not open to the air or oxygen; they are trapped by dead skin cells and need to be exfoliated and extracted.

couperose skin; telangiectasia

Redness; distended capillaries from weakening of the capillary walls; internal or external causes.

cysts

Fluid, infection, or other matter under the skin

dehydration

Lack of water (also caused by the environment, medications, topical agents, aging, or dehydrating drinks such as caffeine and alcohol).

enlarged pores

________ due to excess oil and debris tapped in the follicles or expansion due to elasticity loss or trauma.

erythema

Redness caused by inflammation.

hyperkeratinization

An excessive buildup of dead skin cells/keratinized cells.

hyperpigmentation

Brown or dark pigmentation; discoloration from melanin production due to sun or other factors.

hypopigmentation

White, colorless areas from lack of melanin production.

irritation

Usually redness or inflammation; from a variety of causes.

keratosis

A buildup of cells; a rough texture

milia

Hardened, pearl-like masses of oil and dead skin cells trapped beneath the surface of the skin. ____ are not exposed to oxygen and have to be lanced to open and remove them.

papules

Raised lesions; also called blemishes.

poor elasticity

Sagging; loose skin from damage, sun, and aging.

pustules

An infected papule with fluid inside.

rosacea

A vascular disorder; chronic redness. Papules and pustules may be present.

sebaceous hyperplasia

Benign lesions seen in oilier areas of the face. Described as looking like donut holes. Cannot be extracted.

seborrhea

Oiliness of the skin.

sensitivities

Reactions from internal or external causes.

solar comedones

Large blackheads, usually around the eyes, due to sun exposure.

sun damage

UV damage to the epidermis and dermis; primary effects are wrinkles, collagen and elastin breakdown, pigmentation, and cancer.

wrinkles/aging

Lines and damage from internal or external causes.