Five common skin problems and how to treat them
Skin problems differ significantly in severity and symptoms. They may be painful or painless and can be permanent or temporary. Although others are genetic, some may have situational causes.
While most skin conditions are minor, some are life-threatening. Learning how to tell one skin condition from another is crucial in providing home care.
In this article we look at five of the most common skin problems and their treatments.
1) Acne (Acne vulgaris)
Acne can cause anxiety for many teens and is the most common skin disorder in the US. It develops when hormonal changes trigger the blockage of the skin’s oil (sebaceous) glands and hair follicles.
Although acne is mainly used to refer to pimples on the face, blackheads, cysts, and nodules are also referred to as acne. Other body parts, such as the chest and the back, are also susceptible to developing acne. If left unchecked, acne can cause permanent dark facial spots and scars.
Some of the most widely used treatment options for acne include the following:
- Differin cream
- Tretinoin topical (with a doctor’s approval)
- Oral isotretinoin in severe acne cases
- Sarecycline tablets (for non-modular to severe acne cases)
You can also minimize the risk of getting acne by developing a healthy skin routine. You can use products such as herbal soap and collagen glow to improve the health of your skin.
2) Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
The shingles virus is characterized by a crimson, blistered rash that appears around your torso or other parts of your body.
You may also experience fatigue, fever, and headaches. It is caused by the same virus responsible for chickenpox. Therefore, you are at a higher risk of getting shingles if you have had chickenpox before.
However, there is a shingles vaccine accessible in the United States. The herpes zoster subunit vaccine is available for people aged 50 and above since they are at a higher risk of an impaired immune system. Also, early treatment with antivirals can lighten the symptoms.
3) Eczema (Atopic dermatitis)
Atopic dermatitis is most commonly observed in children. Although its specific cause is unknown, scientists believe that environment, the immune system, and/or genetics play a role. Eczema appears on the hands, feet, face, and skin creases.
Constantly scratching the affected area due to dry, scaly, and itchy skin makes it thickened. Allergies are not a cause of eczema, even though it often develops in people with allergies.
Topical steroids like dupixent and eucrisa are used to lessen symptoms.
4) Hives (Urticaria)
Hives are raised, red, itchy areas that develop on the skin. They are caused by bug bites or stings, medication, and food.
Sometimes they affect a large area of your body and even affect your breathing. If this occurs, you should call your local emergency services or seek urgent treatment. Although they usually disappear after about 2 hours, you can develop chronic urticaria, which may persist for months or years.
The best way to avoid hives is by avoiding the triggers. Over-the-counter antihistamines such as fexofenadine or loratadine help control itching. Omalizumab is recommended for people that do not respond to antihistamines.
5) Rosacea
Although it is most common in women above 30, it can also affect men. It is characterized by swelling of the face, pimples, redness, and prominent blood vessels. It is caused by environmental issues, vein problems, and immune system deficiencies.
The following are some of the treatments for rosacea:
- Azelaic acid gel for the inflamed pimples
- Isotretinoin
- Antibiotics like doxycycline and metronidazole
Although some skin conditions are harmless, others are a source of distress, discomfort, and other symptoms.
However, it would help if you did not have to deal with your skin issue all by yourself. To ensure that you get a correct diagnosis and treatment plan, you must consult a dermatologist.
