Plain-language definitions of dermatology terms — so you understand what's being discussed during your consultation.
Blocked pores that become inflamed, causing pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and sometimes deep painful nodules. Common in teenagers and young adults but also affects adults well into their 30s and 40s, especially in humid climates like Lucknow. Acne treatment details →
Brown or grey-brown patches on the face — typically cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip. Triggered by hormones, UV exposure, and heat. Very common in Indian women, especially in sun-exposed cities. Melasma is manageable but not permanently curable. Pigmentation treatment →
Progressive hair thinning driven by genetics and hormones (DHT). The most common cause of hair loss in both men and women. Graded by severity (Norwood scale for men, Ludwig scale for women). Hair loss treatment →
Ringworm, jock itch, athlete's foot — all caused by dermatophyte fungi that thrive in warm, humid conditions. Extremely common in Lucknow during monsoon and summer months. Often made worse by over-the-counter steroid creams. Fungal infection treatment →
Loss of skin pigment in patches due to autoimmune destruction of melanocytes. Not contagious, not caused by diet. Treatment options include medication, excimer laser, and melanocyte transplant surgery. Vitiligo treatment →
A controlled application of acid solution to the skin surface. Removes the outer damaged layer, promoting new skin growth. Used for mild acne scars, pigmentation, dullness, and fine lines. Different types (glycolic, salicylic, TCA) for different skin types and concerns. Chemical peel details →
Your own blood is drawn, centrifuged to concentrate platelets, then injected into the scalp or skin. The growth factors in platelets stimulate hair follicles or promote skin healing. Used for hair loss and skin rejuvenation. PRP details →
A laser that creates tiny columns of controlled damage in the skin, triggering collagen production and skin resurfacing. Used for deep acne scars, surgical scars, and skin texture improvement. Requires downtime (5–7 days typically). CO2 laser details →
A laser (810nm wavelength) that targets melanin in hair follicles, disabling them over multiple sessions. Achieves "permanent reduction" — not "permanent removal." Multiple sessions needed because hair grows in cycles. Laser hair removal details →
An injectable that temporarily relaxes specific muscles to reduce dynamic wrinkles (forehead lines, crow's feet, frown lines). Effect lasts 3–6 months. Used medically for hyperhidrosis (excess sweating) as well. Botox & fillers details →
A multi-step facial that cleanses, exfoliates, extracts, and hydrates the skin using a vortex suction device and serums. No downtime. Popular for dullness, mild acne, and pre-event skin preparation. HydraFacial details →
A targeted UV light therapy used for vitiligo and stable psoriasis. Delivers focused UV-B to affected patches without exposing surrounding skin. Excimer laser details →
A blocked pore. Open comedone = blackhead. Closed comedone = whitehead.
Dark marks left behind after acne, injuries, or inflammation. Not a scar — it's pigment deposited during healing. Usually fades with time and treatment.
Examination of skin or scalp using a magnifying device (dermatoscope). Allows Dr. Ankita to see patterns invisible to the naked eye — important for diagnosing hair loss type and evaluating moles.
A measure of how much a sunscreen protects against UVB rays. SPF 30 blocks ~97% of UVB. SPF 50 blocks ~98%. Reapplication every 2–3 hours is more important than the exact SPF number.