Skin Diseases Treatments
Hundreds
of skin conditions can affect us. The most common can cause similar symptoms,
so learning what distinctions to look out for can be key.
Skin conditions contribute
While learning to tell one
condition from another can help a person provide home care, it can be crucial
to receive a diagnosis and treatment from a healthcare professional, such as a
dermatologist.
Below are some common skin
conditions, organized by how long they last, when they develop, and which areas
they affect. When possible, we also describe how these conditions appear in
skin of different tones.
Lasting conditions: A
number of skin conditions can last throughout life. Some may begin in childhood
and continue into adulthood. In some cases, the symptoms are not always present
but flare up at certain times.
2)
Moles: Moles are
growths that form when skin cells bunch together with surrounding tissue. Most
are called “common moles” and cause no harm. Many people have moles, and a
person may have as many as about 40 moles throughout
their body. Check moles regularly for any changes in their appearance, such as
an increase in size or change in color. Anyone who notices changes should let
their doctor know so that they can screen for skin cancer.
Some skin conditions resolve with
time or with the right course of treatment.
1) Acne: Acne is one of
the most widespread skin conditions. Any person can get acne.
People of Color may also develop dark
spots, known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, as a
result. People can typically treat acne
with medication. For females, this may involve hormonal therapy, in some cases.
Light therapy may also be effective.
2) Hives: Hives are
itchy, raised welts. They may be pinkish or reddish in people with lighter
skin. An allergic reaction is usually responsible,
though stress, illness, and friction, such as from tight clothes, can
be the cause.
3) Warts: The human papillomavirus, better known as HPV, causes warts, which are contagious. These bumps can appear on any
part of the body, typically on the
hands, feet, and joints. They tend to be the color of a person’s skin or are
darker. Warts sometimes go away on their own, but a dermatologist may recommend
removing them, depending on their type and location.
4) Fungal nail infection: This involves an overgrowth of fungus near, under, and around the nails. Usually, it affects
the toenails.
The nails’ edges may crumble away, and their surfaces may
have whitish-yellowish scaling and flaking.
Different types of fungi can cause this infection, and
the treatment may depend on the type. Doctors can prescribe oral or topical
medications. In some cases, they may need to remove the affected nail.
5) Cold sore: A cold sore is a red, fluid-filled blister. These blisters usually appear
near the mouth, and the affected skin may feel painful or delicate. Before the
blisters appear, there may be itchiness or a burning sensation. The herpes simplex virus causes cold sores, which may last
for up to 2 weeks, then return
periodically. While there is no cure, various treatments can reduce outbreaks.
6) Candidiasis: The overgrowth of the Candida
albicans fungus causes this issue, and when it affects the
skin, it is called cutaneous Candidiasis or cutaneous Moniliasis. The areas may
be irritated and have lesions or small pustules. Candidiasis typically develops in
skin folds, such as the armpit or around the groin. Sometimes, it affects the
face. People can usually prevent Candidiasis by boosting their skin hygiene and avoiding
the overuse of antibiotics. To treat it, doctors may prescribe antifungal and
corticosteroid creams.
7) Athlete’s foot:
Athlete’s foot
is a fungal infection. The fungus responsible thrives in warm, damp conditions,
such as inside sneakers. Symptoms may include dry, itchy, peeling skin. There
can also be blisters and bleeding, and the skin between the toes or under the
foot may be soggy, pale, cracked, or scaly. Doctors usually treat athlete’s foot with antifungal
creams or sprays.