Dermatology Services
Comprehensive skin, hair, and nail care from board-certified dermatologists. We diagnose and treat all common and complex skin conditions with personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.
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Why Skin Health Matters
Your skin is your body's largest organ and its first line of defense against environmental threats. It protects your internal organs, regulates temperature, and plays a crucial role in your overall health and well-being.
Skin conditions affect 84 million Americans annually and range from minor cosmetic concerns to serious medical conditions. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a detailed skin examination every year to maintain healthy skin.
At MyDoc Urgent Care, our board-certified dermatologists and experienced staff provide comprehensive skin care services. We diagnose and treat all common skin conditions with personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.
Whether you're dealing with acne, infections, aging concerns, or skin cancer screening, we're here to help you achieve healthy, clear skin.
Conditions We Treat
Acne and acne scars
Eczema and dermatitis
Psoriasis
Rashes and urticaria
Fungal infections
Bacterial infections (cellulitis)
Viral infections (shingles, warts)
Moles and skin growths
Skin cancer screening
Hair loss (alopecia)
Nail disorders
Pigmentation disorders
Common Skin Conditions
Understanding your skin condition helps guide treatment decisions. Here's detailed information on conditions we treat.
Acne
Category: Common Inflammatory Condition
Description: A chronic inflammatory skin disorder affecting hair follicles and sebaceous glands
Causes: Oil (sebum) accumulation, dead skin cells, bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes), clogged pores, hormonal changes
Types: Blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules, cysts
Risk Factors: Hormonal changes, genetics, stress, diet (high glycemic foods, dairy), puberty, PCOS, medications
Treatment: Topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, hormonal therapy, isotretinoin for severe cases
Prevention: Regular cleansing, non-comedogenic products, stress management, balanced diet, sun protection
Rashes
Category: Skin Reaction Disorders
Description: Inflammatory skin reactions characterized by redness, itching, irritation, or blistering
Causes: Allergic reactions, heat, sunburn, infection, contact dermatitis, friction, insect bites
Types: Contact dermatitis, heat rash, drug rash, viral exanthems, fungal rashes, bacterial infections
Risk Factors: Sensitive skin, history of atopy, allergen exposure, poor hygiene, immunosuppression
Treatment: Identify and avoid triggers, topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, moisturizers, antibiotics if infected
Prevention: Avoid known irritants/allergens, protective clothing, skin barrier protection, proper hygiene
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Category: Chronic Inflammatory Condition
Description: Chronic inflammatory skin condition causing intense itching, redness, and impaired skin barrier
Causes: Genetic predisposition, immune dysfunction, environmental triggers, skin barrier defects
Types: Atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, nummular dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema
Risk Factors: Family history of atopy, early childhood onset, dry skin, stress, allergen exposure, environmental factors
Treatment: Skin barrier repair, topical corticosteroids/calcineurin inhibitors, antihistamines, systemic immunosuppressants
Prevention: Skin care routine, stress management, allergen avoidance, humidity control, gentle cleansing
Psoriasis
Category: Autoimmune Skin Disorder
Description: Chronic autoimmune condition causing rapid skin cell turnover resulting in thick, scaly plaques
Causes: Genetic predisposition, immune dysfunction, environmental triggers (infection, stress, trauma, medications)
Types: Plaque psoriasis (80%), guttate, inverse, pustular, erythrodermic psoriasis
Risk Factors: Family history, stress, infections (streptococcal), trauma, medications, alcohol, smoking
Treatment: Topical agents, phototherapy, systemic medications, biologics for moderate-severe disease
Prevention: Stress management, infection avoidance, trigger identification, smoking cessation, weight management
Hives (Urticaria)
Category: Acute Allergic Reaction
Description: Sudden appearance of itchy wheals/welts as allergic or inflammatory reaction
Causes: IgE-mediated allergies (food, medication, insect bites), non-IgE triggers (temperature, pressure, sun exposure)
Types: Acute urticaria (<6 weeks), chronic urticaria (>6 weeks), physical urticaria (cold, heat, pressure)
Risk Factors: History of atopy, genetic predisposition, autoimmune disorders, female gender, middle age
Treatment: Identify/avoid triggers, antihistamines (H1 and H2), corticosteroids, cyclosporine for chronic cases
Prevention: Allergen avoidance, medication awareness, trigger identification, emergency preparedness if anaphylaxis risk
Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
Category: Viral Infection
Description: Reactivation of varicella zoster virus (chickenpox virus) causing painful dermatomal rash
Causes: Reactivation of latent VZV after chickenpox; triggered by immunosuppression, stress, age, other infections
Types: Typical dermatomal distribution; ophthalmic (eye), auricular (ear), other single dermatomal involvement
Risk Factors: Age >50, immunosuppression (HIV, malignancy, medications), stress, local trauma, prior shingles
Treatment: Antivirals (acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir) within 72 hours, pain management, postherpetic neuralgia prevention
Prevention: Vaccination (Shingrix - highly effective 90%), immunosuppression management, stress reduction
Cellulitis
Category: Bacterial Infection
Description: Acute bacterial infection of dermis and subcutaneous tissues; medical emergency if spreading
Causes: Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus (including MRSA); requires break in skin barrier
Types: Non-purulent, purulent (abscess), periorbital, perianal, other specific locations
Risk Factors: Skin breaks (trauma, surgery, burns), obesity, venous/lymphatic insufficiency, diabetes, immunosuppression
Treatment: Antibiotics (oral for mild, IV for severe), elevation, pain management, drain if abscess, address underlying causes
Prevention: Wound care, infection control, skin integrity maintenance, lymphedema management, treat skin breaks promptly
Cysts
Category: Benign Growths
Description: Abnormal pockets of tissue filled with fluid, oil, or pus; usually benign but may require removal
Causes: Blocked glands/follicles, developmental abnormalities, trauma, inflammation
Types: Epidermoid cysts, pilar cysts, lipomas, ganglion cysts, sebaceous cysts, others
Risk Factors: Poor hygiene, trauma, genetics, pilar cyst family history, blocked follicles, previous inflammation
Treatment: Observation if asymptomatic, intralesional steroid injection, incision and drainage if infected, surgical excision
Prevention: Good hygiene, gentle handling, avoid squeezing, proper wound care after trauma
Fungal Infections
Category: Infectious Skin Disorders
Description: Infections caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, or non-dermatophyte molds
Causes: Dermatophytes (tinea), Candida (candidiasis), Malassezia (pityriasis versicolor), others
Types: Tinea pedis (athlete's foot), tinea corporis (ringworm), tinea cruris, onychomycosis, candidiasis, pityriasis versicolor
Risk Factors: Warm/moist environment, poor hygiene, immunosuppression, diabetes, obesity, tight clothing, shared facilities
Treatment: Topical antifungals (first-line), systemic antifungals (oral, IV for severe), environmental control
Prevention: Keep skin dry, wear breathable clothing, public shower shoes, nail hygiene, immune health, moisture control
Moles and Skin Growths
Category: Neoplasms
Description: Benign and potentially malignant skin growths requiring evaluation and monitoring
Causes: Genetic predisposition, sun exposure, age, hormonal factors (pregnancy, contraceptives)
Types: Common nevi, dysplastic nevi, seborrheic keratosis, hemangiomas, lipomas, skin tags, others
Risk Factors: Fair skin, family history of melanoma, high nevus count, atypical nevi, sun exposure, immunosuppression
Treatment: Clinical monitoring, dermoscopy evaluation, biopsy if concerning, surgical excision if needed or desired
Prevention: Sun protection, self-examination (ABCDE rule), professional screening annually
Skin Cancer
Category: Malignant Neoplasm
Description: Malignant skin tumors requiring urgent diagnosis, staging, and treatment
Causes: UV radiation (primary risk factor), genetic predisposition, immunosuppression, viral infections, chemicals
Types: Basal cell carcinoma (80%), squamous cell carcinoma (16%), melanoma (4%), others
Risk Factors: Fair skin, intense/cumulative sun exposure, family history, immunosuppression, PUVA therapy, radiation
Treatment: Surgical excision (gold standard), Mohs micrographic surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy
Prevention: Sun protection (SPF 30+), UV avoidance, protective clothing, annual skin exams, self-monitoring
Hair Loss (Alopecia)
Category: Hair Disorder
Description: Abnormal hair loss with multiple etiologies; significantly impacts quality of life
Causes: Genetic predisposition, autoimmune (alopecia areata), medical conditions, medications, stress, nutritional deficiency
Types: Androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, anagen effluvium, cicatricial alopecia, others
Risk Factors: Male gender, family history, age, stress, hormonal changes, medical conditions, certain medications
Treatment: Minoxidil, finasteride, platelet-rich plasma, hair transplantation, topical corticosteroids (areata), addressing underlying causes
Prevention: Stress management, nutritional optimization, protect from trauma, address medical conditions, consider prophylaxis
Nail Disorders
Category: Nail Pathology
Description: Various nail conditions affecting appearance and function; may indicate systemic disease
Causes: Fungal infection, trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, systemic disease, medications, nutritional deficiency
Types: Onychomycosis (fungal), psoriatic nails, onycholysis, paronychia, nail dystrophy, discoloration, others
Risk Factors: Age, nail trauma, fungal exposure, immunosuppression, systemic disease, poor circulation
Treatment: Topical/systemic antifungals (fungal), corticosteroids (psoriasis/lichen planus), nail care, addressing underlying conditions
Prevention: Nail hygiene, trauma avoidance, moisture control, public pool/shower footwear, treating infections promptly
Who is at Risk for Skin Problems?
Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing skin conditions. Understanding your risks helps guide prevention and early detection strategies.
Fair/Light Skin
Less protective melanin increases UV damage and skin cancer risk
Family History
Genetic predisposition to skin conditions, melanoma, and early aging
Sun Exposure
Cumulative UV exposure causes aging, damage, and skin cancer development
Age
Skin conditions and skin cancer risk increase significantly with age
Immunosuppression
Weakened immunity increases infection, cancer, and severe skin disease risk
Occupational Exposure
Work in outdoor or chemical environments increases skin disease risk
Atopic History
History of eczema, asthma, allergies increases dermatitis and infection risk
Smoking
Smoking impairs wound healing and increases skin cancer and premature aging
Poor Hygiene
Inadequate skin care increases infection and fungal disease risk
Warm/Moist Environment
Humid climates and perspiration increase fungal and bacterial infections
Hormonal Changes
Puberty, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause affect acne and other conditions
Stress
Psychological stress worsens psoriasis, eczema, acne, and hair loss
How We Diagnose Skin Conditions
Accurate diagnosis combines clinical expertise with advanced diagnostic tools. Our dermatologists use multiple methods to identify your condition and guide treatment.
Clinical Examination
Visual inspection and palpation of skin, noting color, texture, distribution, morphology
Dermoscopy
Handheld magnification device revealing subsurface structures; essential for mole evaluation
Wood's Lamp Examination
Ultraviolet light revealing fungal infections, pigmentary disorders, and bacterial infections
KOH Preparation
Microscopic examination of skin scales or nail debris for fungal elements
Fungal Culture
Laboratory culture identifying specific fungal organisms and antifungal sensitivities
Bacterial Culture
Identifies pathogenic bacteria and antibiotic sensitivities for infections
Viral Culture/PCR
Detects viral infections (herpes zoster, herpes simplex) by PCR or culture
Skin Biopsy
Tissue sample for histopathological diagnosis of uncertain lesions or malignancies
Allergy Patch Testing
Identifies contact allergens causing dermatitis; essential for contact dermatitis diagnosis
Photography/Monitoring
Serial photographic documentation tracking lesion changes and treatment response
Treatment Options
Treatment is personalized based on your specific condition, severity, skin type, and preferences. We offer multiple options from topical treatments to advanced systemic therapies.
Corticosteroids
Category: Topical Treatments
Indication: Inflammation, dermatitis, psoriasis, lichen planus
Frequency: Once to twice daily depending on potency and condition
Effectiveness: Rapid anti-inflammatory effect; 70-90% efficacy for responsive conditions
Duration: Short-term for face/sensitive areas; can be longer for body
First-line for many inflammatory conditions; steroid-sparing when possible
Retinoids
Category: Topical Treatments
Indication: Acne, photoaging, fine lines, dyspigmentation
Frequency: Usually nightly; start low frequency to minimize irritation
Effectiveness: Highly effective for acne and photoaging; 60-80% improvement
Duration: Long-term for maintenance; 12+ weeks for visible improvement
Gold standard for acne; start low concentration and gradually increase
Antifungals
Category: Topical Treatments
Indication: Fungal infections (tinea, candidiasis)
Frequency: Once to twice daily
Effectiveness: 80-90% efficacy for dermatophyte infections; variable for candida
Duration: 2-4 weeks typically; longer for nail fungus
First-line for localized fungal infections; environmental control essential
Antibiotics
Category: Topical Treatments
Indication: Bacterial infections, acne
Frequency: Once to twice daily
Effectiveness: 90-95% for superficial bacterial infections
Duration: 7-14 days for bacterial infection; longer for acne
Increasingly combined with benzoyl peroxide to prevent resistance
Oral Antibiotics
Category: Systemic Medications
Indication: Moderate acne, cellulitis, other bacterial infections
Frequency: Once to twice daily
Effectiveness: 70-80% for moderate acne; 90-95% for bacterial infection
Duration: 8-12 weeks for acne; 7-14 days for infection
Combine with topical retinoid and benzoyl peroxide for acne
Antivirals
Category: Systemic Medications
Indication: Herpes zoster (shingles), herpes simplex
Frequency: Multiple times daily
Effectiveness: 90% effective in reducing duration and severity if started early
Duration: 7-10 days for acute infection
Critical for early treatment to prevent postherpetic neuralgia
Oral Antifungals
Category: Systemic Medications
Indication: Extensive fungal infections, onychomycosis, resistant cases
Frequency: Once to twice daily
Effectiveness: 70-90% cure rate for onychomycosis; higher for dermatophytes
Duration: 2-13 weeks depending on agent and indication
Terbinafine preferred for dermatophyte infections
Isotretinoin
Category: Systemic Medications
Indication: Severe acne unresponsive to conventional therapy
Frequency: Once to twice daily
Effectiveness: 90% cure/long-term remission; preventive of scarring
Duration: 16-24 weeks of therapy
Definitive treatment for severe acne; requires careful patient selection
TNF Inhibitors/Biologics
Category: Biologic & Systemic Immunosuppressants
Indication: Moderate-severe psoriasis, severe eczema
Frequency: Variable based on agent (weekly to monthly)
Effectiveness: 75-90% significant improvement; rapid onset
Duration: Ongoing for maintenance
Game-changing for severe disease; careful patient selection and monitoring
Phototherapy
Category: Phototherapy
Indication: Psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, other conditions
Frequency: 2-3 times weekly
Effectiveness: 60-80% improvement for psoriasis; variable for other conditions
Duration: 8-16 weeks; ongoing for maintenance
Excellent option for widespread disease; requires consistent attendance
Personalized Treatment Plans: Our dermatologists develop individualized treatment plans based on your specific condition, skin type, medical history, and goals.
Multiple Options: From topical treatments to advanced biologics and phototherapy, we have solutions for all skin conditions and severity levels.
Skin Health Prevention
Prevention is the best medicine. These evidence-based strategies help protect your skin and prevent disease development.
Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily; reapply every 2 hours with water exposure
Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 AM - 4 PM)
Wear protective clothing (long sleeves, hats, UV-blocking sunglasses)
Avoid tanning beds and artificial UV exposure completely
Check skin monthly using ABCDE rule; annual professional skin exam
Maintain healthy lifestyle: balanced diet, adequate hydration, regular exercise
Manage stress through meditation, yoga, exercise, or counseling
Don't smoke; if you smoke, seek cessation support
Keep skin clean but not over-washed; use gentle, non-comedogenic products
Maintain proper hygiene in shared spaces (showers, pools, gym equipment)
Treat skin breaks and wounds promptly to prevent infection
Keep skin properly hydrated with appropriate moisturizers
Avoid known allergens and irritants; patch test new products
Address underlying medical conditions (diabetes, immunosuppression)
Sleep 7-9 hours nightly; poor sleep worsens inflammation and infections
At-Home Skin Care Tips
Proper home care supports professional treatment and maintains skin health between appointments.
Establish consistent skincare routine: cleanse, moisturize, protect with sunscreen
Use gentle, fragrance-free products; avoid harsh scrubbing
Take lukewarm (not hot) showers; hot water damages skin barrier
Pat skin dry gently; apply moisturizer to damp skin
Apply topical medications exactly as prescribed; don't skip doses
Keep affected areas clean and dry to prevent secondary infection
Avoid scratching or picking at lesions; use stress management for itch
Wear breathable, clean clothing; change immediately if damp from sweat
Trim nails short to reduce damage from unconscious scratching
Use fragrance-free laundry detergent if rash or sensitive skin present
Avoid sharing personal items (towels, razors, nail clippers)
Don't attempt to squeeze, drain, or lance cysts - risk of infection
Use prescribed sunscreen daily even on cloudy days; reapply frequently
Maintain hydration with plenty of water (8+ glasses daily)
Get adequate sleep; poor sleep worsens inflammatory skin conditions
When to Seek Dermatology Care
Certain signs warrant prompt dermatological evaluation to rule out serious conditions.
Changing Mole (ABCDE)
Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter >6mm, Evolving/changing - concerning for melanoma
Spreading Rash
Rash spreading rapidly or accompanied by fever; suggests infection or serious systemic condition
Severe Pain
Severe pain with skin lesion suggests serious infection, shingles, or other urgent condition
Signs of Infection
Increased warmth, swelling, pus, fever, red streaking - signs of cellulitis or abscess
Severe Itching
Uncontrollable itching affecting sleep and function warrants urgent evaluation
Blistering/Bullae
Large fluid-filled blisters with systemic symptoms suggest serious condition
Facial/Eye Rash
Rash on face or near eye, especially if painful, may indicate shingles ophthalmicus
Generalized Rash
Widespread rash with fever, joint pain, or lymphadenopathy suggests systemic disease
Your Skin Deserves Expert Care: With over 3,000 skin conditions ranging from minor cosmetic concerns to serious medical emergencies, professional dermatological expertise is invaluable.
Board-Certified Dermatologists: Our experienced dermatologists stay current with latest treatment advances and evidence-based practices to provide you the best possible care.
Comprehensive Evaluation: We combine thorough clinical assessment with advanced diagnostic tools to accurately diagnose your condition and develop an effective treatment plan.
At MyDoc Urgent Care, we provide urgent dermatology appointments without long waits. Schedule your consultation today at one of our convenient locations in Forest Hills, East Meadow, Brooklyn, Bronx, Jackson Heights, or Little Neck. Your healthy skin is our priority.