Common Conditions That Can Affect Your Skin Health

Do you know what the largest organ in your body is? Here’s a hint: you can see it. That’s right – it’s your skin. Your skin acts as a barrier, separating everything within your body from the outside world and providing protection against damaging UV rays and other dangerous substances that would otherwise enter your body. But what happens if your skin isn’t as healthy as it should be?

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin condition that triggers unusually rapid skin cell growth. This results in the formation of dry, itchy, scaly patches of skin. The scalp, trunk, elbows, and knees are the most common locations for psoriasis, though sometimes the nails and joints can be sites of rash as well. Aside from the rash, people with psoriasis may experience joint pain or stiffness, skin flakiness, peeling, and redness, depression, and inflamed tendons. Sometimes psoriasis symptoms will go away on their own. Treatments include photodynamic therapy, medications, stress management, light therapy, and moisturizer.

Eczema

Eczema is characterized by an itchy red rash that can have a scaly appearance. There are a few different types including seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis. The latter usually develops in children but isn’t limited to them. Around 60 to 80 percent of atopic dermatitis cases continue into adulthood. Eczema rashes are most commonly found on the arms and behind the knees, though young children may also have the rash on the face as well. Symptoms include dryness, rashes, itchiness, bumps, fissures, redness, flakiness, and peeling. The simplest treatment is to avoid any irritating substances such as soaps that have triggered flare-ups. Creams, ointments, and medications can be used to help control eczema.

Acne

Acne is the bane of virtually every teenager, though degrees may vary. Unfortunately, acne doesn’t always go away once you leave your teenage years behind. It comes in many forms, including blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and bumps. Some may be tender while others aren’t even noticeable. Acne tends to happen when hair follicles become blocked by oils, dead skin cells, or even ingrown hairs. Treatments usually include facial cleansers and creams, though medications may also be used.

The health of your skin matters, which means that if you find yourself suffering from some common skin conditions, it’s a good idea to treat them. Psoriasis, eczema, and acne are just a few of the many different skin conditions that people find themselves dealing with on a regular basis. As with any other condition, it’s always a good idea to talk to a doctor if you have any concerns about the health of your skin.

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