While everyone would love to have the complexion of a supermodel, this isn't the reality for a majority of people. There are a variety of common skin conditions that can range from being 
annoying to life-threatening which will require the services of a dermatologist. Palo Alto has some top dermatology specialists, and these are some of the most common skin conditions and diseases that they treat.
annoying to life-threatening which will require the services of a dermatologist. Palo Alto has some top dermatology specialists, and these are some of the most common skin conditions and diseases that they treat.
Acne
For most people, acne falls on the "annoyance" end of the spectrum. For a few, however, it turns into a chronic problem that requires treatment by a dermatologist. Palo Alto skin specialists and other experts note that nearly 80 percent of Americans will get acne at some point in their lives. As hormones can play a role, it is often in the teenage years, but 60 percent will continue with some form of acne into adulthood.
Eczema
Eczema and dermatitis are a group of skin conditions that are characterized by inflamed and irritated skin. Some forms of dermatitis are hereditary, and the most common types of eczema are characterized by patches of dry skin around the elbows and behind the knees. A dermatologist specialist in the Palo Alto area will often prescribe additional moisturizer and the use of corticosteroids.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is also a genetic disease that can be serious and disfiguring. The condition is characterized by the buildup of excess skin tissue that appears inflamed and is covered with silvery 
scales. Psoriasis initially appears on the knees and elbows but will eventually spread to other areas of the limbs as well as the trunk. Some forms of the disease will even affect the hands and scalp.
scales. Psoriasis initially appears on the knees and elbows but will eventually spread to other areas of the limbs as well as the trunk. Some forms of the disease will even affect the hands and scalp.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, approximately one million people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year and one in five Americans will hear the diagnosis in their lifetime. The leading cause of skin cancer is sun damage resulting from excessive exposure to UV rays. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common forms of skin cancer, and the most deadly form is melanoma. It's been found that genetics play a key role in both basal cell and melanoma, more so than with squamous cell carcinoma. When these are detected early, the most common treatment by a dermatologist Palo Alto clinic is the removal of the affected area.
