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8 of the Most Common Skin Conditions

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Written by
SickNWell Staff Writer

 
 
8 Common Skin Disorders | The Takeaway

 

Overview 

The skin you’re in is easy to take for granted. But as the largest organ in your body, your skin has some critical functions, such as insulation, protection, vitamin D production, and sensation. It is also a good indicator of our overall health. 

Like any other part of the human body, the skin is subject to undesirable conditions that can sneak up on you without warning and hang on for a long time.

What is it like if a part of your skin starts scaling while getting increasingly itchy? What if you suddenly developed a flushed appearance? 

Here is a list of the most commonly occurring skin disorders as a handy reference – just in case.

 

8 Common Skin Disorders

1) Acne

Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, forming pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, and cysts.[1] Although it is most common during adolescence, it can affect people of all ages.

2) Eczema

Also known as atopic dermatitis, eczema is a chronic condition characterized by inflamed, itchy, dry skin prone to infection.[2]

The condition, which manifests as red patches on the skin, can be triggered by multiple factors such as genetics, allergens, and environmental irritants. The disorder happens mostly in children, but adults can also get it. 

 

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3) Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an incurable autoimmune condition that results in the buildup of skin cells, leading to thick, silvery scales and red patches that can be itchy and painful.[3] It usually affects areas like elbows, knees, and the scalp but can also affect joints and eyes.[3] Psoriasis can alter between flare-ups and remission.

4) Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that causes face redness, flushing, and sometimes pimples. The condition can be caused by overexposure to the sun, immune dysfunction, or parasitic infections.[4]

5) Hives (Urticaria)

Hives are itchy, raised welts on the skin that can vary in size and shape. Allergic reactions to medications, foods, respiratory allergens, infections, and emotional issues, such as stress and depression often cause them.[5]

6) Dermatitis (Contact Dermatitis)

As its full name suggests, this disorder happens when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen that results in redness, itching, and occasionally blisters.[6]

Triggers include certain skin care products, detergents, latex, and poisonous plants. The symptoms can arise after the skin contacts the irritant and last a few hours to weeks. 

7) Ringworm

Ringworm is a fungal infection unrelated to any worm that creates a circular, red, and scaly rash on the skin.[7] It can affect various parts of the body and is highly contagious.

8) Warts

Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).[8] They can appear on any body part and have an uneven, rough, and grainy texture.[8] Although they can happen to anyone at any age, Caucasians develop them more often than any other group.[8]

 

The Takeaway 

Remember that an accurate diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions are essential for managing them in the long term. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these conditions and are concerned, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for proper guidance and treatment.

 

References:

  1. Oge’, L. K., Broussard, A., & Marshall, M. D. (2019). Acne Vulgaris: Diagnosis and Treatment. American family physician, 100(8), 475–484.
  2. Nemeth, V., & Evans, J. (2022). Eczema. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing.
  3. Nair, P. A., & Badri, T. (2023). Psoriasis. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing.
  4. Zhang, H., Tang, K., Wang, Y., Fang, R., & Sun, Q. (2021). Rosacea Treatment: Review and Update. Dermatology and therapy, 11(1), 13–24. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13555-020-00461-0
  5. Kayiran, M. A., & Akdeniz, N. (2019). Diagnosis and treatment of urticaria in primary care. Northern clinics of Istanbul, 6(1), 93–99. https://doi.org/10.14744/nci.2018.75010
  6. Usatine, R. P., & Riojas, M. (2010). Diagnosis and management of contact dermatitis. American family physician, 82(3), 249–255.
  7. Leung, A. K., Lam, J. M., Leong, K. F., & Hon, K. L. (2020). Tinea corporis: an updated review. Drugs in context, 9, 2020-5-6. https://doi.org/10.7573/dic.2020-5-6
  8. Al Aboud, A. M., & Nigam, P. K. (2023). Wart. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing.
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