Understanding Common Skin Conditions: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Skin is the largest organ in our body; it is also our first line of defense against external factors. However, it's not immune to various conditions and diseases that can affect our physical comfort and overall well-being. In this blog, we'll know some of the most common skin conditions, their underlying causes, prevalent symptoms, and available treatments.
The Different Types of Skin Conditions
There are several types of skin conditions and among them are the following:
1. Acne
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide. It often begins during adolescence but can persist into adulthood.
Causes:
Four main factors
- Excess oil (sebum) production
- Hair follicles clogged by oil and dead skin cells
- Bacteria
- Inflammation
Symptoms:
- whiteheads (closed plugged pores) — small white spots under the surface of the skin
- blackheads (open plugged pores) — small, blocked pores with a black ‘plug’
- papules - small inflamed red tender bumps
- pimples (pustules) papules with pus at their tips
- nodules — large red bumps under the skin which can be painful
- cystic lesions - painful, pus-filled lumps under the skin
These symptoms: can lead to redness, inflammation, and scarring.
Treatments:
Treatment options may include topical creams, antibiotics, hormonal therapy, and lifestyle changes. In Australia, dermatologists often recommend specific treatments tailored to an individual's skin type and condition. If your acne is severe, best to speak to your GP. They may refer you to a dermatologist (a skin specialist) who can help you decide which treatment is best for you.
2. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Eczema is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It often runs in families and can vary in severity.
Causes:
- genetics
- environmental factors
- a compromised skin barrier play a role in eczema development
Triggers:
- contact with irritants in the environment
- heat
- food allergy
Symptoms:
- dryness of the skin
- red, itchy rashes, which can be exacerbated by scratching
- in severe cases, the skin may crack and bleed
Treatments:
- moisturize
- avoid triggers
- dietary changes – seek professional advice before changing your diet
- oral medication (tablets)
- anti-inflammatory ointments – either topical corticosteroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory ointments such as pimecrolimus
Talk to your dermatologist or seek help from the following:
- Eczema Association of Australasia Inc. Tel. 1300 300 182 or (07) 3206 3633
- Australasian College of Dermatologists
3. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition characterized by the rapid growth of skin cells, leading to thick, red patches covered with silvery scales.
Causes:
- genetics
- an overactive immune system contribute to psoriasis.
Triggers:
- stress
- infections
- certain medications (lithium, beta blockers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and antimalarial medication)
- skin injury
- smoking
Symptoms:
- red scaly patches on scalp, elbows, knees and other parts of the body
- itchiness – however, many people do not feel itchy at all
- shedding of scales of skin.
Treatments:
Treatment options range from topical treatments and phototherapy to systemic medications. Doctors may prescribe a range of treatments for the relief of psoriasis symptoms including:
Topical treatments you apply on your skin as a cream or paste:
- corticosteroid medicines
- calcipotriol (a form of vitamin D)
- tazarotene (in a class of medicines called retinoids)
- coal tar
- dithranol
- ultraviolet light therapy
Where to get help
4. Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that primarily affects the face, causing redness, visible blood vessels, and acne-like bumps.
Causes:
The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but factors like:
- genetics
- sun exposure
- certain foods may trigger or exacerbate it
Triggers:
- alcohol
- hot drinks
- coffee and tea
- spicy foods
- overexposure to sunlight
- anxiety
- emotional stress
- overheating, especially in bed at night
Symptoms:
- enlarged capillaries (telangiectasis)
- facial redness (flushing)
- visible blood vessels
- pimple-like bumps
- non-tender lumps under the skin
- mildly swollen cheeks and nose (hyperplasia)
- a sensation of burning or stinging
- a rash that is confined to the face
In severe cases, it can lead to eye problems.
Treatments:
Treatment typically includes:
- topical and oral antibiotics
- lifestyle modifications, avoid triggers
- diathermy – a small device that generates heat is applied to the damaged blood vessels
- laser therapy - to treat the enlarged capillaries
- dermatologists often recommend sun protection measures due to the country's harsh UV conditions.
Where to get help
5. Melanoma and Skin Cancer
Skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, is highly prevalent due to the country's intense UV exposure.
Causes:
Melanoma and other skin cancers are generally developed from over exposure to UV radiation from the sun, tanning beds or artificial sources
Symptoms:
Symptoms vary but may include changes in moles, persistent sores, or new growths on the skin. Some changes may include:
- the spot may grow larger.
- the edges of the spot may look irregular, rather than smooth
- the spot may be mottled with a range of colours such as brown, black, blue, red, white or light grey
- the spot may be itchy or bleed
Treatments:
Early detection through regular skin checks and sun protection practices are crucial. Treatment options range from surgery to radiation and chemotherapy, depending on the type and stage of cancer.
Where to get help
6. Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a skin condition characterized by the loss of skin pigmentation, resulting in white patches on the skin.
Causes:
The exact cause is unclear, but it is believed to be related to an autoimmune reaction.
Symptoms:
Symptoms include depigmented patches that often spread over time.
Treatment:
People with vitiligo are usually in good health and live normal lives. If vitiligo doesn't cause discomfort, you can leave it as is. But if you want to treat it, here are three options:
- cover it up with makeup or dyes.
- use treatments like creams, light therapy, or medications.
- consider re-pigmentation surgery or depigmentation to even out your skin tone.
Talk to a dermatologist for help with your vitiligo. You can also receive support and information from the Vitiligo Association of Australia and other support groups for people with vitiligo.
Conclusion:
Understanding common skin conditions is essential for early diagnosis and effective management. If you suspect you have a skin condition, consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans. Remember that individual experiences with skin conditions may vary, and a healthcare provider's guidance is essential for the best outcomes.
Explore MedCart’s Beauty & Wellness category for all your skincare needs
Sources:
- Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Acne. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/symptoms-causes/syc-20368047
- Health Direct. (n.d.). Acne. Retrieved from https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/acne
- Better Health Channel. (n.d.). Eczema (atopic dermatitis). Retrieved from https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/eczema-atopic-dermatitis
- Better Health Channel. (n.d.). Rosacea. Retrieved from https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/psoriasis
- Better Health Channel. (n.d.). Psoriasis. Retrieved from https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/rosacea
- Better Health Channel. (n.d.). Melanoma. Retrieved from https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/melanoma#treatment-of-melanoma
- Health Direct. (n.d.). Vitiligo. Retrieved from https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/vitiligo
