Skin conditions come in all shapes and sizes, and vary in symptoms and severity. Some are minor and can be managed with over the counter products and medications, while others are more serious and require medical treatment. However, all skin conditions whether minor or severe can be managed by a board-certified dermatologist. So, what are the three most common conditions? We sat down with Andrew Newman, DO, board-certified dermatologist and an independent member of the HonorHealth Medical Staff, to learn more.
1. Acne
Acne can affect anyone at any age. There are many causes, but one of the biggest is due to hormonal changes caused by puberty or pregnancy. Acne can also be caused by certain medications, an unhealthy diet full of carbohydrates and sugar, and/or genetics.
While having acne can be unpleasant, it doesn’t have to hold you back from enjoying life, and there are many different solutions to help clear up breakouts, including oral medications, topical creams and a modified skincare regimen. For more severe cases and to prevent scarring, your dermatologist may recommend microneedling, which uses a device to help stimulate collagen production and cell turnover.
2. Eczema
Eczema is an umbrella term for several inflammatory skin conditions. It causes the skin to become inflamed or irritated resulting in dry, sensitive or red-inflamed skin, or dark-colored or rough, scaly patches, usually appearing on the arms and behind the knees.
There’s a combination of factors that can cause eczema, including genetics, environmental triggers, skin barrier defects and sometimes food allergies. There is no cure, but don’t lose hope! A dermatologist can help ease and control eczema with treatments, such as over the counter remedies, prescription topical medications, phototherapy, immunosuppressants and biologic drugs.
3. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes thick red scaly patches to form on the skin. They are usually itchy, red, inflamed, and can crack and bleed. The cause of psoriasis is not completely understood, but it is known to have a genetic component and can flare up in response to certain triggers, including stress, injuries, medications and infections. Smoking and heavy alcohol use can also cause outbreaks.
Now this may sound like a lot to handle, but there are a wide range of treatments available that can help ease the symptoms you are experiencing. Your dermatologist may suggest phototherapy, biologic drugs and/or topical treatments (corticosteroids, salicylic acid and over the counter moisturizers).
If you are experiencing any issues with your skin or have any questions, please schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. They can help you achieve your skin care goals, manage skin disorders, as well as help screen for skin cancer.