How to Identify and Treat Common Skin Conditions

The skin is often the first thing people notice about it. It also appears to be pretty elastic and ready to bounce back after injuries. In fact, it is the body’s largest organ, wrapping itself around your internal system like a strong armor.

However, don’t let that outwardly tough appearance fool you. Your skin can be surprisingly sensitive. It often reacts to external factors like the weather and your diet as well as your sleep quality, stress levels, and hormones in ways you wouldn’t have expected. Since your skin is what people see first, any bumps, spots, or patches can quickly make you feel uncomfortable.

Let’s discuss a few common skin conditions, how to spot them, and a few quick remedies!

1. That Dreaded Acne

Acne isn’t just common in teenagers. You can have acne at any point in life. Ever heard of adult acne? It is basically where your acne resurges in your late 20s to early 30s.

Acne can be caused due to hormonal changes like hitting puberty, coming off a birth control pill, pregnancy, stress, skincare products and much more. It can appear in the form of whiteheads, blackheads, or painful cysts, most often on the face, shoulders, and back.

The best way to deal with acne is to use gentle cleansers and avoid scrubbing your skin too hard. Search for products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. They are knights in shining armor, fighting against clogged pores and bacteria.

Often, despite all this care, acne may still persist. In that case, try your best not to touch or pick at your skin too much to avoid spreading bacteria. Consider visiting an expert Maple Grove dermatologist for prescription treatments such as retinoids or antibiotics.

2. The Itchy and Irritating Eczema

You can easily identify Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, through the red and itchy patches that often feel quite scaly or rough to the touch. These appear primarily in the creases of your elbows, behind the knees, or on the hands. Eczema often reacts really badly to allergens, harsh soaps, and even stress.

To avoid breakouts and heal your skin, keep it moisturized through ointments and thick creams. Specialized creams can be used to treat tricky spots like the scalp and face, allowing them to heal and breathe at the same time. In severe cases where the Eczema leaves scarring and hyperpigmentation behind, red-light therapy can work wonders!

If Eczema is a recurring issue for you, consider switching to fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products. Identify your triggers and avoid them. If you feel like none of these changes make a difference it may be time to visit your dermatologist and request topical steroids or prescription creams.

3. Psoriasis: When Skin Cells Work Overtime

Psoriasis is a tricky condition that causes your skin cells to multiple too quickly which can be identified through thick, silvery scales as well as red patches. It can affect the nails, cause joint pain, and often appears on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back.

Psoriasis can be treated in much of the same way as one deals with Eczema. Relying on thick moisturizers as well as prescription treatments like topical steroids, vitamin D creams, or biologics can work wonders.

4. Rosacea

This condition is characterized by persistent facial redness and sensitivity, visible blood vessels, and often acne-like bumps. It affects the cheeks, nose, forehead, and commonly is triggered by heat, spicy food, or alcohol.

Consider investing in high quality SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s heat. Keep a trigger diary to figure out causes for your worst breakouts. Don’t forget to opt for gentler, fragrance-free cleansers to protect your skin. 

5. Hives

Hives often appear as raised, itchy welts in the form of smaller spots or large patches. They disappear as quickly as they appear and are often caused by allergic reactions, stress, or certain medications.

Over-the-counter antihistamines are your best bet as they work closely on the itching and swelling. Once you figure out the trigger, avoid it like the plague! Seek medical attention immediately if you find yourself unable to breathe or experience swelling of the face, lips, and tongue.

Final Thoughts

Many skin conditions, allergic reactions, and breakouts can be treated at home. However, it is important to reach out to an expert dermatologist if you notice the condition worsening or if you notice pain, bleeding, or pus.

Your skin reflects your environment, habits, and overall mental and physical health. Take care of it and learn to recognize skin issues so you can deal with the symptoms in time!