Skin Disorders

Overview

Skin disorders include conditions affecting the skin, hair, nails, and related glands. They may be temporary or chronic and can result from inflammation, infection, allergies, immune-system activity, genetics, environmental exposure, or other health conditions.

Common Types

• Acne: Blocked and inflamed hair follicles that can cause blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or deeper lesions.
• Eczema: A group of conditions associated with dry, itchy, inflamed skin.
• Contact dermatitis: Irritation or an allergic reaction caused by contact with a substance.
• Psoriasis: A chronic immune-mediated condition that produces thick, scaly patches.
• Rosacea: Persistent facial redness that may include visible blood vessels, bumps, or eye irritation.
• Fungal infections: Conditions such as ringworm and athlete’s foot, often causing itchy, scaly areas.
• Vitiligo: Loss of pigment-producing cells, resulting in lighter patches of skin.
• Skin cancer: Abnormal growth of skin cells, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary by condition and may include:

• Itching, burning, tenderness, or pain
• Redness, swelling, scaling, or cracking
• Rashes, bumps, blisters, sores, or ulcers
• Changes in skin color or texture
• Changes in a mole or other growth
• Hair loss or changes to the nails

Diagnosis and Treatment

A healthcare professional may diagnose a skin disorder by reviewing symptoms and medical history and examining the affected area. Testing can include skin scrapings, cultures, allergy testing, blood tests, or a biopsy.

Treatment depends on the cause and may involve moisturizers, medicated creams, antibiotics, antifungal medicines, antihistamines, immune-modifying treatments, light therapy, or minor procedures. Avoid using prescription products or combining treatments without professional guidance.

When to Seek Medical Care

Arrange an evaluation when a skin problem is persistent, recurring, painful, spreading, disrupting sleep, or not improving with basic care. Seek prompt medical attention for:

• A rapidly spreading rash, especially with fever
• Difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Blistering, extensive peeling, or severe pain
• Signs of infection such as warmth, pus, red streaks, or worsening swelling
• A new or changing mole, a sore that does not heal, or unexplained bleeding
• A rash appearing soon after starting a new medicine

Everyday Skin Care

• Wash gently and avoid harsh or fragranced products when skin is irritated.
• Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer regularly.
• Protect skin from excessive sun exposure.
• Avoid scratching and keep fingernails short.
• Do not share towels, razors, or personal-care items when an infection is possible.
• Track possible triggers and changes in symptoms to discuss with a clinician.

Skin conditions can look similar despite having different causes. A clinician or dermatologist can provide an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.