The last fifty years have encompassed unparalleled development in the world of scientific medical research. Yet, the causation of many diseases eludes consciousness. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the sometimes neglected discipline of dermatology, as a scientific basis for causation and treatment is offered to very few diseases of the skin. In fact, the cause is unknown in the vast majority of cases. This work is an exploration of the unconscious psychic background of acute, but mainly chronic, skin diseases. It is a study which includes both the personal unconscious of each individual and the vast archetypal world with its communication by image and symbol, which is named the collective unconscious or objective psyche. Its reality was established 100 years ago by C.G. Jung's early work with the galvanometer and the word association test, through the medium of the skin. He was to describe psyche, including consciousness and the unconscious realm, as the greatest of all cosmic wonders. His concept of the human soul included this totality of psyche. The development of the field of biofeedback later in the last century revealed the extraordinary ability of the skin to reflect the inner life of psyche. In this psychological exploration of each individual troubled by problems of the skin, a wide variety of psychic emotional disturbances was uncovered in the course of the study. It also became apparent that the skin is a paramount psychic reflector in a singularly graphic way in many instances. The conscious recognition of these hidden disturbances and the acceptance by the individual proved to be the key factor in the study. This realization with its inherent meaning usually brought amelioration of symptoms and often a resolution of the ailment. The skin disease in such cases is a message from the soul itself.

This “seriously entertaining book” explores the skin in its multifaceted physical, psychological, and social aspects (Times, UK). Providing a cover for our delicate bodies, the skin is our largest and fastest-growing organ. We see it, touch it, and live in it every day. It is a habitat for a mesmerizingly complex world of micro-organisms and physical functions that are vital to our health and survival. One of the first things people see about us, skin is also crucial to our sense of identity. And yet much about it is largely unknown to us. With rigorous research and lucid prose, Monty Lyman explores our outer surface through the lenses of science, sociology, and history. He covers topics as diverse as the mechanics and magic of touch (how much goes on in the simple act of taking keys out of a pocket and unlocking a door is astounding), the close connection between the skin and the gut, what happens instantly when one gets a paper cut, and how a midnight snack can lead to sunburn. The Remarkable Life of the Skin takes readers on a journey across our most underrated and unexplored organ. It reveals how our skin is far stranger, more wondrous, and more complex than we have ever imagined.

This treatise aims to fill up the lacuna and to contribute significantly to the dissemination of knowledge about the indication/contraindication, mechanism of action, ethical use, side-effects and various other facets related to topical corticosteroid. Topical corticosteroids (TC) have greatly enhanced dermatologists’ ability to effectively treat several difficult dermatoses. The available range of formulations and potencies allows them to flexibly treat all groups of patients, different phases of disease, and different anatomic sites. Improper/incomplete knowledge about topical corticosteroids’ mechanism of action, indications, classifications, and contraindications has produced a rapid rise in the incidence of improper use of these drugs, which could potentially bring disrepute to this entire group of amazing drugs. Responsibility for disseminating proper knowledge regarding when, where, and how to use TC both to internists and patients primarily rests with dermatologists. In this regard, the benefits of rational and ethical use and the potential harm of overuse and misuse for nonmedical, especially cosmetic purposes, should be clearly conveyed before prescribing TC.