It is a branch of medicine that is entirely concerned with the treatment, prevention and diagnosis of skin disorders. Dermatology is a wide area of medicine encompassing diagnosis, investigation and therapy of cosmetic and ageing conditions of the skin, fat, nails, hair, oral and genital membranes.

The first step is to know the causes and symptoms of skin problems. Skin problems tend to vary from one person to another. They can be permanent or temporary. Common causes of skin problems include a weak immune system, bacteria trapped in the hair follicles and skin pores, genetic factors, virus, fungus or microorganisms that live on the skin, stress, hormonal changes, skin and hair care products, or certain underlying medical conditions. Some symptoms associated with skin problems could be peeling skin, ulcers, dry, cracked, rough, scaly or itchy skin, raised bumps, either red or white, open lesions or sores. If you notice any or some of these symptoms, it is recommended that you visit a dermatology clinic at the earliest.

At Holy Family Hospital - Services in the department include treatment for all kinds of skin related issues and problems along with disorders like vitiligo (leukoderma), psoriasis, acne and eczema. The department also specializes in pigmentary disorders and leprosy, in addition to chemical peel for hyper pigmentation of face. Support facilities related to Microbiology, Clinical pathology, Biochemistry, and Histopathology with Immuno-fluorescence studies are available in-house.

Acne - Proven creams and ointments are usually prescribed for the treatment of acne. Also, mild medication may be given to help clear scars and marks.

Pigmentation - Treatment suggested depends on the area and the degree of skin pigmentation. The prescription may include skin lightening creams, topical applications, skin peels including salicylic peels, intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, laser skin resurfacing and microdermabrasion.

Warts - Treatments for warts includes salicylic acid, medication, freezing the wart (cryotherapy), or removing the wart using surgical methods such as curettage, laser surgery or electrosurgery.

Vitiligo (leukoderma) - is a chronic skin condition that causes a loss of pigment, resulting in irregular pale patches of skin. It can affect people of any age, gender, or ethnic group. Treatment includes medical therapy and skin grafting (autologous melanocyte grafting ).

Psoriasis - is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells. This buildup of cells causes scaling on the skin's surface. Inflammation and redness around the scales is fairly common. Typical psoriatic scales are whitish-silver and develop in thick, red patches.