Skin Conditions..

What causes warts? Are they contagious?

A virus causes warts. They can appear anywhere on the body, but are often found on the hands, feet, and face. Warts are contagious at a very low level.

Warts are skin conditions that will often disappear by themselves within two years. Treatment for warts includes over-the-counter medicine that is applied directly to the warts. More persistent warts may require a prescription medicine or a doctor's removal by freezing, burning, or laser treatment. Warts, even treated, can recur.



What is athlete's foot?

Athlete's foot is a contagious skin condition that results in scales and dead skin on the feet and between the toes. A common fungus causes it, and the infected area can be inflamed and very itchy. You can get athlete's foot in locker rooms or by sharing a shower with an infected person.

Remedies for the skin condition include using a powder two times a day, anti-fungus creams, and wearing cotton socks. To help prevent athlete's foot, wear flip-flops in public showers and locker rooms, and on swimming pool decks.



What causes dandruff?

Dandruff is a skin condition that results in greasy or dry white "flakes," often in your hair or eyebrows, that can itch. Although its cause is unknown, dandruff is associated with oily hair. Stress and hormonal and seasonal changes can aggravate it.

To manage dandruff, shampoo daily with a dandruff shampoo. Leave the shampoo on your head for 5 minutes to let the ingredients work. Scrub vigorously, letting your fingers loosen the scales and rinse thoroughly.



What are cold sores? Are they contagious?

Cold Sores are caused most often by a Herpes simplex virus 1. The result is mouth sores that can be itchy or painful. An outbreak can last from a few days to two weeks. Herpes is very contagious. It can be transmitted through touching a sore, sharing eating utensils or toothbrushes with an infected person, and kissing.

Avoiding certain food, wearing sunscreen, and reducing stress can help control this skin condition. Although sores will heal on their own, medications can speed up the process. There is no cure for the virus.