Skin conditions
Skin Specialist in Salem: Clinical Dermatology
Many skin problems look alike but need very different treatment. An accurate diagnosis by a dermatologist is the first step to getting it right.
Conditions we treat
Eczema and dermatitis
Itchy, dry or weeping patches, including atopic eczema in children and adults, hand eczema, and contact dermatitis from cosmetics, hair dye, metals or chemicals at work.
Psoriasis
Thick, scaly patches on the scalp, elbows, knees, palms, soles or nails. Psoriasis is a long-term condition, but modern creams, light-based and oral treatments can keep it well controlled.
Skin allergies and urticaria (hives)
Itchy, raised welts that come and go, swelling of the lips or eyes, and reactions to food, medicines or insect bites.
Fungal infections
Ringworm (tinea) of the groin, body and feet, candida infections in skin folds, and tinea versicolor (light or dark patches on the chest and back). These are very common in our hot, humid climate.
Bacterial and viral infections
Boils, impetigo, warts, molluscum contagiosum, herpes and shingles.
Vitiligo and white patches
Not every white patch is vitiligo. We examine the patch, confirm the cause and discuss treatment options, which may include creams, medicines and minor procedures.
Scalp conditions
Dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis, scalp psoriasis and itchy, flaky scalp. See also our hair loss treatment page.
Other skin conditions
Scabies, lichen planus, rosacea, drug reactions, persistent itching, skin changes linked to diabetes or thyroid disease, and confidential care for sexually transmitted infections.
What happens at your visit
- History. Dr. Kiruthika asks how the problem started, what you have tried and about your general health.
- Examination. A careful look at your skin, hair and nails.
- Tests if needed. For example a fungal scraping, blood tests, a patch test or a skin biopsy.
- Treatment plan. A clear explanation of the diagnosis, your medicines and how to use them. Prescribed medicines are available at our in-house pharmacy.
- Follow-up. Review visits to check progress and adjust treatment.
A word about steroid creams
Many creams sold over the counter for itching, rashes or “fairness” contain strong steroids. They may give quick relief, but they can make fungal infections spread, thin the skin and cause acne, redness and pigmentation. Please bring every cream you have used to your consultation.
Why choose Skintillate
You are seen by Dr. Kiruthika, a dermatologist with an MD from PGIMER, Chandigarh, a DNB, and experience as a Senior Resident at JIPMER and PGIMER, where she managed a wide range of common and complex skin conditions.
Frequently asked questions
When should I see a dermatologist instead of a general doctor?
See a dermatologist if a skin, hair or nail problem has not improved with treatment, keeps coming back, is spreading, or is affecting your sleep, work or confidence. Also see one for any mole or spot that is new, changing or bleeding.
Why does my fungal infection keep coming back?
The most common reasons are stopping treatment too early, using over-the-counter creams that contain steroids, and re-infection from clothes, towels or family members. A full course of the right medicine, along with simple hygiene measures, usually clears it.
Is psoriasis or vitiligo contagious?
No. Neither psoriasis nor vitiligo spreads from person to person through touch, sharing food or living together.
Will I need tests?
Many conditions can be diagnosed by examining your skin. When needed, simple tests such as a fungal scraping, blood tests, a patch test or a small skin biopsy help confirm the diagnosis.