Skin, Hair, & Nails

The skin, hair, and nails are important components of the body's largest organ, the skin. They serve a variety of functions, including protection, insulation, and regulating body temperature. They also play a crucial role in appearance and self-esteem.

Conditions that affect the skin, hair, and nails can range from minor and cosmetic, such as acne and hair loss, to more serious and potentially life-threatening, such as skin cancer and autoimmune skin diseases.

There are several skin conditions that are underrated or underdiagnosed in Malaysia. Some of these include:

1. Fungal skin infections: Fungal infections, such as tinea corporis and tinea pedis, are common but often misdiagnosed or overlooked.
2. Psoriasis: This autoimmune condition can cause red, scaly patches on the skin, but is often mistaken for other skin conditions, such as eczema.
3. Rosacea: This chronic skin condition causes redness, flushing, and acne-like pimples on the face, but is often misdiagnosed as acne.
4. Vitiligo: This skin condition causes loss of pigmentation, but is often misunderstood or misdiagnosed as a fungal infection.
5. Hidradenitis Suppurativa: This painful, chronic skin condition causes boils and abscesses in areas with hair follicles, such as the armpits and groin, but is often misdiagnosed as acne or a bacterial infection.

Early and accurate diagnosis of these conditions is important for effective treatment and management, and it is recommended to seek the care of a dermatologist or skin specialist for immediate next step.

Dermatologists, skin specialists, and skin care professionals are trained to diagnose and treat conditions of the skin, hair, and nails. They use a combination of medical and surgical techniques, including prescription medications, topical treatments, and procedures such as laser therapy, to help patients achieve healthy, radiant skin.