Our skin serves as a protective barrier, shielding our bodies from exposure to toxic agents present in the external environment. However, definite factors such as our genes, lifestyle choices, and other environmental influences and certain medical conditions can affect your natural skin.
Understanding the various kinds of skin problems is important. This is because each skin condition is unique and to effectively manage them we need to understand its challenges.
Acne (Acne vulgaris)
Acne is a recorded universal issue. It is “the” prominent origin of stress and constant worry among all teenagers. Surprisingly, acne is also common among adults.
Hormonal fluctuations can cause your follicles or oil glands to become blocked, as your body undergoes these changes from time to time. This results in acne.
Other than your face, the other common places where you get acne are on the back of your shoulder, or your chest. To treat acne, you can use the following treatment methods;
- Tree Oil, Aloe Vera, Apple Cider Vinegar, and Honey are some natural remedies for acne. These contain anti-inflammatory properties causing the bacteria to die away.
- Creams such as Differin, Tretinoin Topical and Oral Isotretinoin can be used to treat moderate or severe acne. But these creams have high risks for pregnancy.
- There are also creams containing Benzyl which are prescribed by doctors and are safe to use.
Eczema (Atopic dermatitis)
The direct cause of this skin problem has not yet been discovered. Scientists believe it to be our genes, the external surrounding, or our inflammatory mechanisms that are the cause.
This form of eczema can come on the face, hands or feet (specially in children). The symptoms include arid and irritated skin, and you might have the urge to itch.
Treatments include;
- Keep the affected areas moisturized and hydrated.
- Use mild cleansers, avoid harsh scrubbing of your skin and
- Identify the factors that trigger your eczema.
- Make sure to get adequate sleep and have a balanced diet.
- In terms of medication;
- Consuming steroids is the most common method of treating eczema.
- An injection named Dupixent has also been on the rise to treat eczema in children, and it has shown effective results.
- Doctors prescribe approved eczema creams like Eucrisa for severe or moderate eczema.
Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
The identical virus that originates chickenpox results in Shingles. Therefore, if you have had chickenpox, then you are at risk of developing shingles as well. People with weakened immune systems are at risk also.
If you develop shingles, you might see red rashes and blisters. Symptoms include feverishness, tiredness, and migraines.
Treatments include;
- The highly-effective Shingrix vaccine is available worldwide. It consists of two doses administered with a gap of approximately 5 months.
- If you have symptoms of Shingles, take antivirals such as Valtrex.
Hives (Urticaria)
Hives are small wet-like bumps that rise on the skin. These occur due to certain medications, diets, insect wounds, or viral infections.
If the hives start to spread across your entire body, start to swell up, and change your breathing patterns, then call for immediate attention. These usually go in a few hours, but some might stay for longer times.
If you get hives, use antihistamines to control the scratching. Also, a vaccine named Quzyttir has been accepted to cure lasting hives for older people and kids above one year old.
Sunburn
When you are exposed to sunlight or other similar sources, its UV light might cause redness, feel warm or even strip if you were exposed too much.
If you are repeatedly exposed to sunlight at extreme levels, then your risk of developing skin cancer is high. Apply sun protection cream every 120 minutes while you are under the sun.
Treatments include;
- Take a cold shower, stay hydrated and apply moisturizer
- You can apply ibuprofen if irritated or has swelled up
- Do not squeeze any breakouts as it might result in inflammation.
- If your case gets severe with you having a temperature and blisters, then consult your doctor.
Contact Dermatitis
Experiencing a reaction upon contact with something is referred to as contact dermatitis.
There should be some form of trigger for this to occur. Maybe pollen, certain allergens, dust, beauty products, ornaments, certain fabrics etc.
Identify the object which caused the reaction and prevent it. If you accidentally come in contact, use antihistamines or steroids to lessen the symptoms and reduce the severity of the reaction.
It is also best to do a test before coming into contact with an unknown object.
Rosacea
A prolonged skin condition that makes the skin red and causes visible blood vessels on the face.
It is seen most among middle-aged women, but a proportion of men are affected by it also. Complications with their immunity, vascular systems and other outer surroundings could be the result.
Treatments for Rosacea include;
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- Medications such as antibiotics, and gels that contain certain acids used for pimples caused by rosacea
- Medications that lessen the sensation of flushing or Oestrogen. If not, surgery could be used to get rid of the redness of the face.
- There are also creams that are used to constrict the blood vessels. This gets rid of the redness.
Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)
Our feet are always exposed to the outer surroundings, and it is always vulnerable to unknown agents; including fungus.
Athlete’s Foot results in constant scratching, skin cracks, and irritation on the whole foot or parts of it. If you are in public places like swimming pools, rivers, and public showers, then you are at high risk.
Treatments include;
- Using antifungal creams like Lotrimin, Lamisil, and Micatin.
- Always try to keep your feet fresh and don’t keep them wet. Change any footwear, and wear shoes when walking in public places.
- If the fungus grows under your nails or the normal infection doesn’t go away, then you will have to consult a doctor. This is because a stronger treatment method might be needed.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
BCC is a kind of skin cancer that develops in the basal cells of the skin. BCC is a non-communicable disease that can be treated. If you were exposed to sunlight for extended periods, you are at risk of getting BCC, similar to sunburns.
It appears on the face, and they look like red water bubbles which shine.
Treatments include;
- Laser treatments for large BCCs
- Skincare medication for small BCCs
- Surgery
- There are also supplements for people whose BCCs have relapsed after surgery or laser treatments. People who can’t undergo these treatments can also use them.
- Avoid staying under sunlight for too long and take the necessary precautions. Also, consult your doctor and do a health checkup on skin cancer yearly.
Conclusion
Each skin condition presents its challenges. Fortunately, there are numerous solutions available. This includes medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and natural remedies.
It is crucial to consult a dermatologist for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans.
Stay informed, take care of your skin, and embrace the journey to healthier skin.
