The thrill of the winter sojourn to warmer climes and ocean activities like scuba diving, surfing and snorkeling, among others, can lead many to overlook other notable health and safety precautions.

On Oct. 3, I reviewed why hyperpigmentation (dark skin spots) occurs, as well as some of the common causes and conditions. But it does not end there. Indeed, there are more skin conditions that raise many questions from concerned patients.

Originally published in The Ottawa Citizen October 3, 2004 Original title: Out, Out Damn Spot: Part 1 The formation of dark skin spots, or hyperpigmentation, can either be a benign condition or the development of a serious local or systemic disease. In this two-part series, we will look at the causes and types of hyperpigmented [...]

Alopecia or hair loss is a distressing turn of events for women. The scalp is often afflicted but it can occur on any part of the body. Why does this happen? Are there different types of hair loss?

Originally published in The Ottawa Citizen February 29, 2004 Originally titled: “Common Skin Infections” Bacterial skin infections are a common reason why people consult their family doctor. Each infection has its own specific treatment.

Many people are unaware of the proper management of burns. Is there a need to apply creams, antibiotics, salves or natural products to promote healing? What are the first steps to prevent or minimize skin damage in the immediate aftermath of a burn?

Originally published in The Ottawa Citizen November 11, 2003 Original Title: Plaques are not trophies October was National Psoriasis Awareness Month. Despite a press release from the Canadian Dermatological Association, the illness did not garner much press coverage. Psoriasis fall into the category of common illnesses lost in the competitive din of common serious diseases. [...]

During the summer months, it is common to see people come in with peculiar linear or blotchy blistered red rashes. Welcome to poison ivy country.

As warmer weather approaches, children will be spending more time playing outdoors. So will dogs.

Originally published in The Ottawa Citizen October 15, 2002 Original Title: Daycare Part III: A little red in the face Part I – Why children fight one cold after another Part II – Children’s eye diseases spread quickly What are the common childhood rashes seen in the school and daycare setting? Initially, many rashes can [...]

Every summer our skin is subject to the mosquito onslaught. Young children’s skin tends to react more strongly from bites. A young child’s immune system has not had the pleasure of the hundreds of times adults have been exposed to mosquito saliva. With age we develop antibodies so that by adulthood our response to these bites is more subdued.

With the summer months approaching, the ozone hole growing and the tan enthusiasts ready to hit the beach, it is important to know how skin valiantly tries to protect itself. Alas, people subject their dermis (skin) to multitudes of insults and injuries. Cuts, bruises, scrapes and mild burns heal well and cause no lasting damage. Ultraviolet radiation (UV) is less forgiving.