A-Z OF SKIN
Search our A to Z of Skin to find out more about common skin conditions and problems, their symptoms, causes and how they are diagnosed and treated. You can search by both common and medical names, or by medicine or treatment name.
Both common and medical names have been included to help your search, as well as the names of medications and treatments. There are also a number of cosmetic topics which explain the latest treatments for cosmetic concerns related to the skin. Our thanks go to the many College dermatologists have contributed to the information on this site.
The information provided in the A-Z of Skin is a general guide only and does not replace individual medical advice. Please speak to your doctor for advice about your situation. The ACD is not liable for any consequences arising from relying on this information.
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Abobotulinumtoxin A
Neurotoxins are a group of substances that are used in dermatology to treat hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). They are also used to reduce wrinkles, most commonly those around the eyes and on the forehead
MoreAcanthosis Nigricans
Acanthosis nigricans is a skin condition in which the skin in the armpits, around the neck, in the groin and under the breasts becomes thickened and has a dark velvety appearance.
MoreAcne
Acne is a very common skin condition that usually begins in adolescence. The hair follicle and its associated oil (sebaceous) gland become blocked and inflamed. More
MoreAcne Keloidalis Nuchae (AKN)
Also known as … Folliculitis keloidalis, folliculitis keloidalis nuchae, dermatitis papillaris capillitii, acne keloidalis, nuchal keloid acne, lichen keloidalis nuchae. What is Acne Keloidalis Nuchae? Acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects hair follicles on the back of the neck. AKN is most commonly seen in men of African-Caribbean background but it is also seen in those of Hispanic, Asian, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean backgrounds. In rare cases, it may also be seen in Caucasians. Whilst this condition mostly affects men, women may be affected in some cases (the ratio of affected men to women is 20:1).
MoreAcne Scars (Acne Scarring)
Acne scars are permanent textural changes and indentations that occur on the skin as a result of severe acne. The term “scarring” is not used for the temporary red and brown marks left early after acne has occurred as these marks will almost always improve without treatment.
MoreAcne Vulgaris
Acne Vulgaris is a very common skin condition that usually begins in adolescence. The hair follicle and its associated oil (sebaceous) gland become blocked and inflamed.
MoreAcquired Ichthyosis
Also known as … Late onset ichthyosis Acquired ichthyosis is a non-hereditary skin condition characterised by dry and rough skin with scaling. It is often described as “fish scale skin” and usually appears for the first time in early adult life. Acquired ichthyosis may be associated with internal diseases or with the use of certain medications. There is no known gender or racial predilection in developing this condition.
MoreAcquired Naevus of Ota-like Macules (ABNOM)
Also known as ... Hori's Naevus and Naevus Fusco-caeruleus Zygomaticus. Hori’s naevus presents as benign (harmless) blue-grey to grey-brown patchy and spotty pigmentation on the prominence of the cheeks. The condition usually appears in adulthood. It is most common in middle-aged Asian women.
MoreAcrochordons
Skin tags are harmless growths that hang from the surface of your skin. They range in size from 1mm to 1cm and are made of collagen fibres and blood vessels surrounded by skin.
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