Dermatitis, nails and intimate area
Medical dermatology treats diseases of the skin, nails and mucous membranes: itching, spots, scaling, allergies, fungal, bacterial and viral infections, and chronic conditions such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Many of them look alike to the naked eye and can only be told apart during a dermatology examination.
Summary
- Consultation
- Full skin, nail and mucous membrane exam with a dermatoscope
- In-office tests
- Skin scraping for fungus and biopsy when needed
- Treatment
- Creams, oral medication and a daily skin care routine
- Follow-up
- Depending on the condition, from 30 days to 3 months
What is treated
- Dermatitis: atopic dermatitis (dry, itchy skin since childhood), contact dermatitis (allergy to costume jewelry, cosmetics or cleaning products) and seborrheic dermatitis.
- Psoriasis: red, scaly plaques on the elbows, knees, scalp and nails.
- Infections: fungal infections of the skin and nails, warts, herpes and impetigo.
- Nails: ingrown nails, spots, nails that separate from the nail bed or change color, deformities and pain.
- Genital skin (men and women): itching, burning, redness, spots and lesions.
- Ears: repair of torn earring holes and removal of lesions.
How it works
Dr. von Kossel examines your skin from head to toe, asks about products, medication and routine, and confirms the diagnosis. For nail fungus, for example, she may take a scraping for the lab before starting a treatment that lasts months. The plan includes what to use day to day to keep the condition from coming back.
Frequently asked questions
Can nail fungus be treated with an over-the-counter nail polish?
Mild cases may respond to an antifungal nail polish. When the fungus covers a large part of the nail or several nails, treatment is usually oral and lasts 3 to 12 months, the time it takes for the nail to grow out.
Does a dermatologist treat intimate area problems?
Yes. Itching, burning, spots and lesions on the skin of the genital area, in men and women, are part of dermatology. The exam is done privately and only with your consent.
Last updated November 10, 2026 · Medical director (responsável técnica): Dr. Karen von Kossel, CRM-SP 107714 · RQE 58534