Skin diseases rank as the fourth most common cause of human illness, though many affected do not seek a physician’s help. If you suffer from skin blemishes or other skin-related problems, it’s important to know that you are not alone.
There are many different types of skin conditions, some that are very treatable and others that are more serious. Learning which may be affecting you can help you better understand the next steps to take.
We have compiled a list of the seven most common skin problems below, so read on.
1. Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic Dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a common disease in children, but it is also present in adults. It shows itself as dry and scaly patches on your skin, including your face, cheeks, hands, and scalp.
It is often extremely itchy and can be painful. It can affect some short-term, but it can also be a long-term condition.
When it’s long-term, it can be managed with good hygiene practices, including regular showering and moisturizing. Topical medications and oral antihistamines are also used to reduce itching and manage pain.
2. Acne
If you’re experiencing face skin problems, there’s a pretty good chance it’s acne. Acne is the most common skin condition in the country, and it can significantly impact your quality of life.
The good news is, it’s not dangerous, and it’s very treatable. While it’s typically associated with teenagers, adult acne is quite common as well.
It also doesn’t just appear on the face. You can experience acne on your back, arms, neck, shoulders, and chest. These breakouts occur because of clogged pores caused by oily skin and dead skin cells.
This can be due to hormones, or it may be due to your genetics. Learning about how acne works can help you better prevent it, so be sure to check out this resource.
Less severe acne can be treated with over-the-counter products, such as toners, moisturizers, and cleansers. However, if your acne is more severe, seeing a dermatologist may be required for treatment.
3. Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic skin disease characterized by red blemishes or patches on the face, usually including the nose, chin, and cheeks. You may also notice it on your back, chest, forehead, and ears.
Depending on the severity of the condition, you may also experience red bumps that are pus-filled.
It is treated with topical prescriptions, antibiotics, and laser therapy. It can worsen if treatment is not sought out, so it is best to catch this condition as soon as possible.
4. Psoriasis
Psoriasis affects millions of Americans and has similar characteristics as eczema. It is caused by the body generating new skin cells rapidly while the skin is already inflamed.
You may see red scaly patches on your knees, elbows, lower back, and scalp. To differentiate from eczema, psoriasis shows itself as brighter and thicker red patches that are raised plaques with white scales.
Psoriasis can be very painful and itchy, but it can be treated with topical medications or oral prescriptions from your dermatologist.
5. Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a skin condition that occurs when pigment-producing cells stop functioning or die. This causes loss of skin color and discoloration that can affect any part of the body, including your mouth, hair, and eyes.
The common causes of vitiligo include auto-immune diseases, genetics, sunburn, stress, and chemical exposure. It is a chronic disease that does not have a cure, but treatments can help improve the appearance of the skin.
These treatments include steroids and immunosuppressive drugs, sunscreen, and photodynamic therapy.
6. Sunburn
When you think of dangerous skin diseases, sunburn may not come to mind. Yet, repeated sunburns can increase your risk of skin cancer, which is the most common cancer in the United States.
Sunburn can also cause dark sunspots, which may require special exfoliation or medication to remove.
Preventing sunburn is much easier and more comfortable than treating it. However, it can be difficult to know just how much sun exposure is safe, even with the use of sunscreen.
Reapplying your sunscreen every two hours is highly recommended, but even so, an extended period of time in the sun can still lead to sunburn.
If this occurs, try taking a cool bath to help to soothe your skin. Drink plenty of fluids, and apply a gentle moisturizer such as aloe on the burnt area.
You may also need to take ibuprofen to help reduce any swelling or discomfort.
If your skin blisters, be careful not to pop or tear them. If they become worse, or you experience any fever or chills, call your doctor right away. This could be a sign of infection.
7. Melasma
If you experience brown patches on your face, it could be Melasma. This condition is also characterized by blue-gray patches or dark, freckle-like spots on the forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin.
It occurs because your skin cells are overproducing, which can be caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy or sun exposure.
Melasma is harmless and usually fades after pregnancy or when birth control pills are no longer in use. You can find skin-lightening treatments to help the affected areas, but this condition is generally painless.
Ready to Treat Your Skin Blemishes?
Though these are the most common skin blemishes and problems, there are many more that could affect you. Learning the different forms that skin diseases can take can help you better prepare and treat your own conditions or those of a loved one.
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