Dermatology Expert in Top Santé
Dr Ross Perry was chosen by Top Santé magazine as their Dermatology Expert. He gave his expert advice on a couple of skin problem questions from readers.
The popular London GP and skin doctor founded Cosmedics Skin clinics, a private company offering a range of skin treatments. He specialises in NHS skin cancer reconstruction. He has enormous experience and is often asked to give medical advice and opinion for media features.
White patches on the skin – vitiligo or fungal infection?
The first question reads:
“I’m in my late 40s and of mixed race. About 5 months ago, I started getting white patches around my groin and armpits. Might this be vitiligo or is it something else? What can I do?”
Dr Ross Perry replied:
“It’s difficult to say whether loss of pigmentation in the groin and in the armpits is purely down to vitiligo, as this could also be due to a fungal infection, which could cause loss of pigmentation. It’s more common to have a fungal infection in these areas than vitiligo, as vitiligo usually has a more indiscriminate presentation – for example, it often occurs in much more random areas.
“In the first instance, I suggest you visit your GP to see whether it’s worth trying anti-fungal creams.
“Vitiligo can affect all races and genders, but it is more visible in people with darker skin. It can happen at any age but occurs most commonly between the ages of 10 and 30 years. Globally it affects around 1% of the population.
“Vitiligo occurs when melanocyte s- the cells that produce melanin, the chemical that gives skin its colour – are destroyed by the body’s immune system. Vitiligo usually starts with a few small patches that tend to spread over time. The cause is unclear, but it’s thought immune disorders, genetic factors, neurogenic factors or emotional stress may be a trigger.
“If it is vitiligo, GP treatment might include a topical steroid cream to stop the spread of white patches and restore skin colour. Light therapy sometimes has positive results by either stopping or slowing the progression of vitiligo.
“It’s important to stay out of the sun. When skin is exposed to sunlight, it produces melanin to protect it from ultraviolet rays. However, if you have vitiligo, there’s not enough melanin within the skin, so it’s not protected. If you’re not getting enough sun, though, you run the risk of becoming vitamin-D deficient. Make sure you’re getting enough from food sources such as oily fish, and speak to your GP about a vitamin D supplement.”
Keratosis pilaris – not responding to treatment?
The second question reads:
“I have keratosis pilaris. I’ve tried topical treatments, such as creams and acids, which do help but don’t get rid of it. What can I do?”
Dr Ross Perry replied:
“A keratosis pilaris is an incredibly common condition that occurs when your hair follicles become blocked with a build-up of keratin, a substance found in skin, hair and nails. Nobody knows exactly why keratin builds up, but the condition is thought to run in families. So, if your parents have it, you may have it too.
“Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to treat, as it is part of your skin’s structure. It’s more a case of managing it and trying to keep it under control.
“I would advise you to moisturise your skin twice a day, and check with your pharmacist which moisturiser is most suitable for you.
“Gently scrub your skin with a wash cloth when showering, have cool or lukewarm baths, use a fragrance-free wash and gently pat skin dry after showering/bathing to avoid irritation.”
See the full Dermatology Expert article on Top Santé
Mole removal consultation
Cosmedics Skin Clinics remove moles privately. This is usually for patients who would not qualify for NHS treatment, where the mole is deemed ‘cosmetic’, but the client would prefer to get rid of it, whether for aesthetic reasons or just peace of mind to stop it growing.
The first step is to arrange a private mole check consultation appointment with one of Cosmedics’ doctors or surgeons. They will assess the blemish and advise on the best course of treatment. They’ll also outline what to expect in terms of recovery and aftercare as well as the type of result patients can expect.
Dr Ross Perry
Ross qualified in 1994 at Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospital Medical School, London. His career includes NHS skin cancer reconstruction, work as a GP, as well as private cosmetic skin treatments.
He established Cosmedics Skin Clinics in 2003 and remains in charge as Medical Director. He is renowned for natural-looking use of non-surgical cosmetic and anti-ageing injections and is especially well known for dealing with unwanted skin lesions and blemishes (e.g. moles, cysts, warts skin tags).
Dr Ross Perry is frequently called upon by the media for his expert insights and comments on skin and beauty-related issues.
Cosmedics Skin Clinics
Cosmedics Skin Clinics was established in 2003. Over the last 19 years, it has built up an excellent reputation for cosmetic and medical skin treatments.
The company offer a full range of cosmetic treatments, including popular lip enhancement and wrinkle relaxing injections, dermal fillers. In addition, there is a range of medical treatments including mole removal, thread vein treatment and excessive sweating injections.
Cosmedics Skin Clinics has 5 skin clinics across London and Bristol. Treatments are carried out by GMC Registered Doctors and Surgeons.
Call 020 7386 0464 or email enquiries@cosmedics.co.uk to book an appointment.
Get In Touch
Please fill in your details and our skin advisors will call you back to give you more information.
You can also add an optional short message.
[elfsight_whatsapp_chat id=”1″]