Used in medical settings to describe skin-related subjects, often seen in medical reports and diagnoses. The patient was diagnosed with a cutaneous melanoma.
Pro Tip 2/3
Not Cosmetic
'Cutaneous' refers to skin itself, not to cosmetic aspects like beauty or skin-care products. Cutaneous reactions were observed, not to be confused with cosmetic allergies.
Pro Tip 3/3
Technical Usage
It's a technical word; in everyday conversations, 'skin' or 'skin-related' is more likely to be used. I have a cutaneous condition, which means a problem with my skin.