Skin and Cancer Associates, Florida

A private dermatology group of 80 dermatologists, nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing at more than 30 locations in Florida.

Medical Dermatology

Rosacea Treatment

About Rosacea

What is it?

Rosacea is characterized by persistent skin redness, the prominence of blood vessels, blotchiness, and reddish bumps or pimples on the face; it’s as if you have the inclination to blush or flush quickly and without reason. In particular, it commonly develops in the cheeks, chin, nose, forehead, ears, and neck.

What causes it?

The exact causes of rosacea are unknown, although genetics, problem blood vessels, and irregular immune system function are thought to contribute. There are, however, known common triggers that you should avoid, such as sun exposure, alcohol, spicy foods, and hot liquids.

Common treatments

There is no outright “cure” for rosacea and it is often unpredictable; even if you avoid triggers and follow a treatment plan that eliminates the symptoms, it can return without warning. However, the skin experts at our dermatology practice can help you manage the condition by minimizing symptoms as much as possible. For milder cases, topical medications can reduce redness while oral medications can shrink bumps and pimples. For more severe symptoms, laser or IPL (intense pulsed light) therapy is effective for improving blood vessels and/or reducing blushing and flushing.

Our approach & expertise

We understand the effects that rosacea can have on you, both physically and psychologically, due to characteristics that make you feel self-conscious. As your neighborhood skin experts, we have the experience and knowledge to provide support and encouragement as well as answer questions you may have about this bothersome skin issue. Because you always have a say in your treatment, we provide customized solutions to meet your needs and goals. We’re beside you every step of the way, addressing your concerns with advice and after-care guidance.
Contact an office today if you notice rosacea characteristics so that we can help you combat this condition. Your skin deserves the best—Skin and Cancer Associates is ready to help.

Rash Diagnosis & Treatment

About Rashes

What are they?

The term “rash” covers a wide range of skin conditions, usually referring to changes in the skin that manifest as bumps, blisters, or red patches. Most of these are harmless, but they can be indications of other skin problems or health issues. Common types of rashes include chronic skin problems, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, bacterial infections, fungal infections, and viral infections.

What causes them?

There are many reasons why you could develop a rash, and some of the most common factors include the following: stress, allergies, genetics, food or drink, various infections, certain medications, insect bites or stings, and sun or heat exposure. If you have a rash that does not disappear after 1-2 weeks, be sure to schedule an appointment to discuss your condition, receive a proper diagnosis, and learn more about your available treatment options.

Common Treatments for Rashes

Skin rash treatments vary widely depending on the type, causes, and symptoms. The skin rash experts at Skin and Cancer Associates in Florida have the knowledge and experience needed to examine you visually and determine exactly the type of rash you have. Once your rash have been identified, we’ll determine a proper treatment for your particular rash. Rash treatments offered at our center include moisturizing lotions and/or creams, topical anti-itch medications, oral antihistamines, topical anti-fungal medications, and light therapy.

Our approach & expertise

Skin rashes can be troublesome, as they not only itch but can also make you self-conscious about your appearance. As your neighborhood skin expert, Skin and Cancer Associates in Florida has the experience and knowledge necessary to help you manage this condition. Need help with your skin? Skin and Cancer Associates is here for you. Contact an office today if you notice a rash that isn’t being controlled easily so that we can address your particular skin issue.

Schedule your appointment today.

Poison Ivy Treatment

About Poison Ivy

What is it?

Poison ivy is a common plant from the Toxicodendron species of plants. If you’ve ever had poison ivy, you know the symptoms, which can include continuous itching, skin irritation, and redness and inflammation. Most people know they shouldn’t scratch the rash, but the incessant itching makes it difficult to stop. Although scratching doesn’t cause the rash to spread, it can prolong the symptoms, and delay healing. and even cause a secondary infection.

What causes it?

Coming into contact with poison ivy – as well as its relatives poison oak or poison sumac – results is a common rash called Toxicodendron dermatitis, which is caused by an oil in the plant. Even though the rash itself isn’t contagious, you can get poison ivy from touching anything else that has touched the plant, such as a toy, pet, or clothing.

Common treatments

Over-the-counter medications are usually enough to contain and relieve the itching and irritation caused by this, including calamine lotion, antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl), cool showers, a baking soda/water mixture for the skin, or OTC topical corticosteroids. Symptoms of this condition usually run their course in about 2-3 weeks. although we recommend seeing a dermatologist before then. However, if the rash is located near your mouth, throat, eyes, or groin, we suggest seeing a dermatologist as soon as possible, as you may need a prescription oral corticosteroid or even an injection.

Our approach & expertise

We understand how uncomfortable poison ivy can be, as the incessant itching can make it hard to concentrate on anything else. As your neighborhood skin experts, our staff of dermatologic specialists has the experience and knowledge to help you deal with this troublesome condition. Contact an office today if you notice symptoms of poison ivy so that we can help you manage this troublesome condition. At Skin and Cancer Associates, we are committed to meeting all your dermatology concerns with precision and professionalism.

Schedule your appointment today.

Pityriasis Rosea Treatment

About Pityriasis Rosea

What is it?

Pityriasis rosea is a common skin disease and appears as a rash that can last from several weeks to several months. It most often develops in the spring and the fall, is more prevalent in adolescents or young adults, and is uncommon in those over 60. Usually, there are no permanent marks as a result of this disease, although some darker-skinned persons may develop long-lasting flat brown spots.
The skin rash follows a very distinctive pattern and varies from person to person. In most cases, a single, isolated oval scaly patch (the “herald patch”) appears on the body, particularly the upper part of the body, but again every individual reacts differently. This is often mistaken for ringworm or eczema. More pink patches can occur on different parts of the body, but rarely on the face.

What causes it?

There is no proven cause for this skin disease. It’s not caused by a fungus or bacterial infection or any known type of allergic reaction and is not a sign of any type of internal disease. It is neither contagious nor sexually transmitted, so there is no reason to avoid close or intimate contact when someone has it If you suspect that you might have this skin disease, it’s best to make an appointment with your dermatologist who will be able to diagnose your condition upon an examination.
It is thought that it may be caused by a virus since the rash resembles certain viral illnesses, and occasionally a person feels slightly ill for a short while just before the rash appears. Pityriasis rosea does not seem to spread from person to person and it usually occurs only once in a lifetime.

Common treatments

Your dermatologist will be able to diagnose it by sight. For confirmation, they may order a blood test, a scraping, or a biopsy. The only reason for tests is to rule out other types of skin problems, like eczema, ringworm, or psoriasis. Usually, pityriasis rosea clears up in a few weeks. If you are experiencing itching, your doctor may recommend topical medications such as calamine lotion, an antihistamine, or even a steroid cream.
All medications will depend on your diagnosis, which is why is important to book your appointment today with your dermatologist so that you will be on your road to recovery soon. We’re here for you at Skin and Cancer Associates, ready to help with anything skin-related.

Lichen Planus Treatment

About Lichen Planus

What is it?

Lichen planus is a common skin condition that can affect one or multiple areas of the body. It may appear on the skin, inside the mouth, or in both places at once. In some cases, it also affects the scalp, genitals, or even the appearance of fingernails and toenails.

While its symptoms can vary, lichen planus is not contagious—you can’t catch it from someone else or pass it on. It’s also important to know that lichen planus is not a form of cancer.

What causes it?

Anyone can get this condition, but it is most common in middle-aged adults. Women get this in their mouths more often than men do. What causes most cases remains unclear.
Lichen planus often causes bumps that are shiny, firm, and reddish purple on the skin. Sometimes the bumps have tiny white lines running through them, these lines are called Wickham’s striae.
You can get a few or many bumps, which can appear on different parts of the body. The most common places for these bumps to appear are the wrists, lower back, and ankles, but they can appear anywhere on the skin, including the genitals.
On the legs, the bumps tend to be darker, new bumps may appear as older bumps clear. When lichen planus develops on the skin, a person can have patches of rough, scaly skin, and are most common on the shins and around the ankles. The bumps can itch, even blister at times, and can be painful.
A simple rash might look like this condition, which is why it’s always best to schedule an appointment with your dermatologist if you think you might have this.

Common treatments

A dermatologist often can tell whether you have lichen planus by looking at your skin, nails, and mouth. To make sure that you have this condition, your dermatologist may do a skin biopsy. There are many different ways to treat this, and your doctor will walk you through what these are, based on your diagnosis. Options can be as simple as taking an antihistamine, a topical ointment, or prednisone in pill form. All treatments depend on your diagnosis, so schedule an appointment today if you are concerned that you have lichen planus. Your skin deserves the best—Skin and Cancer Associates is ready to help.

Schedule your appointment today.

Melanoma Treatment

About Melanoma

What is it?

The most common type of cancer in the country is skin cancer, and melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. In general, melanoma and other skin cancers – squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma – form due to negative mutations of skin cell DNA in the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). The spread of these mutations to adjacent cells, particularly when uncontrolled and rapid, raises the risk of malignancy. Melanoma develops when mutations occur in melanocyte cells, which are skin cells located in the bottom layer of the epidermis. Melanomas frequently form in areas that don’t get much sun exposure and often start out as a mole, a large brown spot, or an irregular lesion.

What causes Melanoma?

Melanoma can occur regardless of your ethnicity, race, skin type, or skin color. The damage accumulation from years of exposure to the sun’s UV rays is the biggest cause of melanoma. Other causes include a compromised immune system or exposure to toxins, radiation, and other harmful substances Additionally, there are several risk factors associated with this skin condition. These risk factors include the following: family history of skin cancer, fair skin, numerous sunburns through the years, sunny climates, locations at high altitude, moles, and precancerous lesions (e.g., actinic keratosis).

Common treatments

If you’ve been diagnosed with melanoma, the following treatment options are very effective: topical medications, superficial radiation therapy (SRT), Mohs micrographic surgery, surgical excision procedure, photodynamic therapy (PDT), cryotherapy, and electrodesiccation and curettage. Not all of these options are available at all offices. Please call to check.

Our approach & expertise

We understand how a diagnosis of melanoma can impact your life. That’s why, as your local skin experts, we’re here with the knowledge and training to help you overcome this disease. We offer solutions tailored to suit your health needs and goals, and we’ll be with you every step of the way, from diagnosis and prognosis to compassionate aftercare support. If you have melanoma symptoms or are regularly exposed to risk factors, you should schedule a screening with our knowledgeable skin cancer experts. Our neighborhood staff offers compassionate support while working to find the best solution for you.
Healthy skin is our passion. Contact us today to learn more about melanoma and the treatment options we provide for this condition. Our team at Skin and Cancer Associates in Florida stands ready to address all aspects of your dermatologic care.

Lupus Skin Treatment

About Lupus

What is it?

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can last weeks, months, or even years. It affects not only your skin but also your joints and organs – and frequently all three at the same time. There are two common types of lupus: systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which can affect your joints, organs, and skin, and discoid lupus, which is characterized by skin rash flare-ups on your face, neck, and scalp. The signs and symptoms of lupus are unpredictable and vary from person to person, but they commonly include recurring fevers, debilitating fatigue, skin rashes (particularly spreading across your nose and cheeks as well as under the eyes, known as “butterfly rash”), hair loss, skin lesions, swollen joints, thyroid issues, and heartburn, acid indigestion, and other GI tract issues.

What causes it?

Although the exact cause of lupus is not clear, there is strong evidence that hormones and genetics play a major role in the development of this condition. Environmental factors are also believed to contribute, including, viruses, stress, fatigue, UV rays, smoking, injury, antibiotics, and dust and dirt.

Common treatments

There is no known cure for lupus, therefore our goal is to manage your condition by preventing flare-ups, reducing pain and swelling, and mitigating the potential damage to your organs, joints, and other areas that can be affected by this condition. Our dermatologists and staff work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that could include corticosteroids as well as anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant medications. You can rely on us to be an integral part of your support in managing this disorder.

Our approach & expertise

We know that lupus can have a significant impact on you, both physically and emotionally. As your community skin specialists, we’re here to provide encouragement and answer questions you may have about this potentially dangerous condition. We have skilled dermatologic experts with the knowledge and experience to advise you of treatment options that can be tailored to meet your needs. We’ll also be by your side to address your concerns as well as provide advice and support. Get in touch with us today if you notice symptoms of lupus so that we can help you manage this unpredictable condition. At Skin and Cancer Associates, we are committed to meeting all your dermatology concerns with precision and professionalism.

Schedule your appointment today.

Ingrown Hairs & Folliculitis Treatment

About Ingrown Hairs / Folliculitis

What is it?

Folliculitis is a common skin condition in which hair follicles become damaged and inflamed. It’s usually caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. At first, it may look like small red bumps or white-headed pimples around hair follicles — the tiny pockets from which each hair grows.

Characteristics

  • Red pimples around areas having hair
  • Inflammation of the hair follicles
  • Caused by infection or chemical or physical irritation (e.g., shaving, fabrics)
  • Higher incidence among people with diabetes, obesity, or those with compromised immune systems

Common Treatments

  • Topical antibiotics
  • Oral antibiotics
  • Antifungal medications
  • Eliminating the cause

Our approach & expertise

We know how folliculitis can impact you, regardless of age. Not only does it affect your skin, but it can also make you self-conscious about your appearance. As your community skin and acne specialists, we’re here to provide support and answer all your questions. Our knowledgeable dermatologic experts work with you to minimize the effects of this condition and offer solutions that can be customized just for you. We’ll also address all of your concerns and provide compassionate support throughout the entire process.
At Skin and Cancer Associates of Florida, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of folliculitis, a common skin condition caused by inflammation of the hair follicles. Whether triggered by bacteria, yeast, irritation, or ingrown hairs, our board-certified dermatologists identify the root cause to develop a personalized treatment plan. We offer a range of solutions including topical or oral medications, advanced cleansers, and preventive skincare strategies to reduce flare-ups. Our team focuses on both immediate relief and long-term skin health, helping patients restore smooth, clear skin while minimizing discomfort and recurrence through expert, compassionate dermatologic care.
Healthy skin is our passion. Contact us today to find out how we can address your condition to improve both your skin and self-esteem. From routine checkups to advanced treatments, Skin and Cancer Associates has you covered.

Hives Treatment

About Hives

What causes it?

Hives are usually allergic reactions to food, medicine, or animals. They can also be triggered by sun exposure, stress, excessive perspiration, or other, more serious diseases, such as lupus. Anyone can get hives. They are harmless and non-contagious. Hives may itch, burn, or sting. They rarely need medical attention as they tend to disappear on their own. However, in persistent cases, your dermatologist will assess the best way to help give you relief.

Common treatments

In persistent cases, your dermatologist may prescribe antihistamines or oral corticosteroids. The best way to prevent hives is to discontinue exposure to the allergic irritant.
If you are experiencing hives, come in and see one of our highly trained providers who will prescribe the best remedy for you. Need help with your skin? Skin and Cancer Associates is here for you.
At Skin and Cancer Associates of Florida, treatment for hives is tailored to each patient’s unique symptoms and underlying triggers. Common approaches include the use of antihistamines, which are typically the first line of defense to reduce itching, swelling, and redness. In more persistent cases, H2 blockers may be added to enhance symptom control. For severe or acute flare-ups, short-term corticosteroids can provide rapid relief. Patients with chronic spontaneous hives that do not respond to conventional therapies may benefit from biologic treatments such as omalizumab (Xolair). In addition to medication, we help patients identify and avoid potential triggers, and recommend gentle skincare routines, cool compresses, and lifestyle modifications to minimize flare-ups and support lasting skin comfort.

Our Approach and Expertise

At Skin and Cancer Associates of Florida, our team provides expert care for patients experiencing hives, also known as urticaria. This condition causes itchy, red welts on the skin that may appear suddenly and vary in size and duration. Our board-certified dermatologists work to identify potential triggers, whether allergic, environmental, or stress-related, and tailor treatment plans to each individual’s needs. We offer advanced diagnostic evaluations and a range of therapies including antihistamines, lifestyle recommendations, and in some cases, immunomodulatory treatments. With a focus on comfort and prevention, we help patients manage hives effectively and improve their overall quality of life.

Impetigo Treatment

About Impetigo

What is it?

Impetigo is a contagious skin infection caused by bacteria. It develops when the bacteria, usually staph or strep, invade injured skin. A scrape on your skin is often enough to get infected. The bacteria may also get in through a cut, insect bite, or anything else that damages the skin. Once inside, the bacteria cause an infection in the top layers of the skin. Sometimes, the bacteria invade uninjured skin and cause impetigo. What you see and feel differs with the type of impetigo.
There are several types of Impetigo, non-bullous, bulls, and ecthyma. Non-bullous is the most common type. It starts with one or more sores, which are often itchy, the sores quickly burst, and the skin can be red or raw where the sores have broken open. Your glands near the sores may feel swollen and crusts, usually honey-colored, form. The skin heals without scarring unless scratching cuts deep into the skin
The infection can spread to other areas of the body, where you’ll see this process begin all over again. This is one reason treatment is so important.
Bullous impetigo causes fluid-filled blisters, but without redness on the surrounding skin. When a person has bullous impetigo, you’ll see it progress as blisters that contain a cloudy or yellow fluid. The blisters become limp and transparent and then break open. A crusty sore can form where the blisters have broken open. Ecthyma can develop when impetigo goes untreated because it goes deeper into the skin.
The difference is the blisters are painful and can turn into open sores that are deep. Thick crusts develop, often with redness on the surrounding skin
Because the infection goes deeper into the skin, you may see scars once the skin heals.
If notice any of these signs on your child’s skin (or your own skin), you should call your dermatologist and make an appointment for treatment. All types of impetigo are very contagious. Treatment can help clear the infection and prevent the infection from spreading to others.

What causes it?

Impetigo is a common skin infection, especially in children. It is caused by bacteria. Children aged 2 to 5 years old are most likely to get this extremely contagious skin infection. However, anyone can get impetigo. Older children and adults get it and often catch impetigo from an infected child. Some athletes have a higher risk of catching it, because of the skin-to-skin contact in sports like wrestling and football. The bacteria that cause impetigo thrive in warm, humid places, so swimmers also have an increased risk.
Most people develop it when the bacteria, usually staph or strep, invade injured skin. The bacteria can get in through a cut, an insect bite, or anything else that damages the skin. Once inside, the bacteria cause an infection in the top layers of the skin.

Common treatments

Our team of dermatologists recommends treating impetigo, especially because it is highly contagious. Treatment will depend on your doctor and also the type of impetigo that you have. Most are easily treatable with topical antibiotics. Without treatment, impetigo often clears on its own in two to four weeks. During this time, there is a greater risk of developing complications. You may see new blisters and sores.
It’s also possible for the infection to go deeper into the skin if you don’t treat it. If this happens, you can develop ecthyma. This infection goes deeper into the skin than impetigo. As the skin heals from ecthyma, scars can form. Ecthyma is more common in children, the elderly, and people who have diabetes. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and help you feel better faster.
Schedule an appointment today using our easy online platform, or call us so that we can help you start feeling better. Need help with your skin? Skin and Cancer Associates is here for you.