Irritations of the skin can be bothersome and embarrassing, especially when they are visible to other people. Skin problems can cause itchiness, redness, blistering, flaking and more. There are a number of different types of skin irritations, most of which can be treated with modern creams and medicines. In the following article, a few of the most prevalent skin irritations along with their treatments will be discussed.
Acne
People of all ages are susceptible to acne; however, it is most commonly associated with teenagers since acne is caused primarily by hormonal changes in the body. Acne is characterized by the eruption of whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules or cysts on the skin of the face and body. Some of these abrasions, especially cysts, can cause permanent scarring. Over the counter as well as prescription medication is available for the treatment of mild to severe acne. Acne prevention creams and oral antibiotics can be used to kill bacteria that causes acne. Laser therapy is also available for more severe cases. Also, contraceptives such as Ortho Tri-cyclen have been proven to significantly reduce acne in women.
Eczema
Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, usually affects the skin on the legs and feet, behind the knees and on the arms, shoulders and face. Eczema is characterized by discolored patches that are extremely itchy, and occasionally riddled with tiny bumps that leak fluid. The skin is extremely dry, with a scaly appearance. Eczema will most likely appear in a child between the ages of five and seven, and could possibly continue into adulthood. Various creams and medications can be prescribed for the treatment of eczema, including corticosteroid ointments to reduce itching, antihistamines, or prednisone, which reduces inflammation. Another type of therapy is light therapy, where controlled amounts of ultraviolet light is used to ease symptoms.
Perioral Dermatitis
Perioral dermatitis is characterized by red or pus-filled bumps that surround the mouth and nose. Although the cause for this skin irritation isn’t known exactly, it is possible that skin products such as makeup and lotions containing fluoride are the culprits. Doctors will usually prescribe tetracycline, an antibiotic taken orally, to treat perioral dermatitis. A corticosteroid cream can also be used to reduce redness and itching. Treatment may take up to several months before the disappearance of this skin affliction.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic disease that can affect a person their entire life. This disease is caused by the excess buildup of cellular material on the skin’s surface, which causes scaly, flaky patches that are itchy and uncomfortable. Skin may also become so dry and cracked that it will bleed. There is no cure for psoriasis, but doctors will often prescribe powerful corticosteroid ointments that help reduce inflammation of the skin. Psoriasis of the scalp is a common affliction that can be treated with corticosteroid shampoos and foams. Calcipotriene, a vitamin D analogue cream, can also be used to help stop the growth of excess skin cells. Other treatments include retinoid creams and ultraviolet therapy.
Rosacea
Rosacea affects adults, and is characterized by red patches on the face, tiny red bumps on the cheeks, nose and forehead and prominent blood vessels on the nose. Rosacea is possibly a hereditary disease that can be aggravated by outside factors such as alcohol, spicy foods and certain blood pressure medications. Topical medications such as tretinoin or benzoyl peroxide can be prescribed to help relieve symptoms. Other treatments include antibiotics taken orally and isotrenitoin, which is used in severe rosacea cases.