Most people don't realize how often they experience skin problems. Rash and long term, chronic skin issues are common among both men and women during their lifetime. There are various reasons for skin problems; while a few will resolve themselves, most skin problems will require you to seek medical care. Learning about the types and causes of skin problems, symptoms, and treatment options available to you will help you decide when to seek help from a qualified medical professional.
The information below provides a list of the most frequently seen skin conditions by a dermatologist as well as how they are treated.
1. Acne
Acne is the second most common reason for people visiting dermatologists, and is one of the most common skin conditions impacting both teen and adult populations.
Causes:
Hormonal changes, excess sebum or oil production, clogging of the pores, and bacteria.
Symptoms:
Papules or pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, and sometimes scarring.
Treatment:
Depending on the severity of the case, your dermatologist will recommend medicated topical cream or ointment; oral medication; and simple lifestyle changes. In severe cases, your dermatologist may recommend more advanced procedures.
2. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Chronic inflammation leads to eczema and symptoms of dry itchy skin that persists over time.
Causes:
Genetics, Allergies, Environmental Triggers, Immune System Response.
Symptoms:
Common characteristics of eczema include redness, itchiness, dryness, and skin thickening.
Treatment:
Moisturizers and the use of anti-inflammatory cream to treat eczema. There is also a need to identify triggers for eczema and to implement lifestyle changes as necessary.
3. Psoriasis
Causes:
Dysfunction of the immune system, stress, infection, and genetic predisposition.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of psoriasis are raised, scaly patches on the skin, itching sensation, red inflamed skin, and discomfort.
Treatment:
Treatment of psoriasis includes oral medicines, medical creams, light therapy under the supervision of a dermatologist.
4. Fungal Infections
Fungal infections are very common among those who live in warm, humid environments.
Causes:
The growth of fungus can be caused by sweat, improper hygiene, sharing of personal items, etc.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of fungal skin infections include: itching, redness, scaling, circular rash, discoloration.
Treatment:
Treatment for fungal skin infections typically consists of antifungal cream and/or antifungal tablets prescribed by a dermatologist.
5. Skin Allergies
Skin allergies occur when the skin reacts negatively to an allergen or irritant.
Causes:
Soap, cosmetic products, metals, food allergies, exposure to environmental allergens, etc.
Symptoms:
Allergic reactions or skin allergies may present as: rash, redness, itching, swelling, blisters, etc.
Treatment:
Skin allergies can be treated by avoiding allergens and irritants, using medicated creams, and using allergy medications.
6. Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a skin condition where the skin's pigment is lost in sections.
Causes:
The main causes of vitiligo are autoimmune reactions that destroy the pigment-producing cells.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of vitiligo are white or pale-coloured patches on body parts such as skin, hair, or mouth.
Treatment:
Several medical therapies have been developed for controlling the spread of vitiligo and improving its appearance.
7. Rosacea
Rosacea occurs primarily on the face and can last for years.
Causes:
The causes of rosacea include abnormalities in blood vessels, hereditary factors, and environmental factors such as medication.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of rosacea include facial redness, the appearance of dilated blood vessels on the face, bumps, and sensitivity of the skin to irritants.
Treatment:
Topical treatments, oral medications, and recommendations on lifestyle may help treat rosacea.
8. Warts
Warts are caused by a virus (Human Papilloma Virus) and are benign tumors of the skin.
Causes:
The cause of warts is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
Symptoms:
Warts are usually characterized as raised, bumpy, dry areas that can develop on the hands, feet and other parts of the body.
Treatment:
Warts can be treated by medical removal, freezing or topical cream applications.
9. Hair Fall and Scalp Conditions
Causes:
Causes of Hair loss and Scalp Conditions include hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, stress, and genetics.
Symptoms:
Signs and symptoms of Hair Loss and Scalp Conditions may include excessive hair loss, dandruff, itching, and scalp infections.
Treatment:
Treatment options for Hair Loss and Scalp Conditions may include Scalp Treatments and medications, as well as Long-term hair care plans.
10. Nail Disorders
Nail issues can signify a health-related concern.
Causes:
The source of these problems could be a result of an infection, trauma, or nutritional deficiency.
Symptoms:
Nail problems may display the following characteristics:
Colour change, thick texture, brittle nail and separation of nail from the finger.
Treatment:
The treatment methods for nail problems include unique nail treatment products and prescriptions for medications.
Why See a Dermatologist for Skin Problems?
A lot of individuals would rather use home remedies or purchase OTC items instead of seeking out a professional dermatologist, but since so many skin problems are equivalent (to whatever their diagnosis was), having the appropriate dermatologist will optimize your probability of receiving a proper diagnosis and obtaining the necessary treatment options for that case.
Visit a dermatologist if:
- You have ongoing or worsening skin condition(s)
- You experience pain or embarrassment due to your issue(s)
- OTC product options did not work for you
- You suddenly notice an alteration in the way your skin looks.
A dermatologist will help treat your skin-related problems better and also prevent further complications from occurring.
Final Thoughts
Never overlook skin health. Minor skin problems exist, but many skin conditions require long-term treatments. It is important to be aware of the early signs of skin ailments so you can determine which skin disorders are worth seeing a dermatologist for.
If you have any form of a recurring skin condition, it is strongly recommended that you see a qualified physician who is familiar with skin disorders and their treatments. This is your best path to achieving healthy, confident skin.