There are many different types of health problems that can affect your skin. Some skin issues are caused by diseases that directly affect your skin cells, and others may be symptoms of underlying medical disorders.
The symptoms, causes, and treatments of skin problems vary widely. To diagnose your skin problem and get effective treatment, visit a doctor who specializes in skin health (a dermatologist).
Skin disorders can lead to many types of symptoms, including:
You may be experiencing one, some, or many of these symptoms at once. Additionally, many skin conditions cause similar sets of symptoms and can be difficult to tell apart.
There are many possible causes of skin problems, such as:
Your doctor can diagnose skin problems by examining the affected area and asking you about symptoms. In many cases, doctors will need to take a small sample of skin (biopsy) and study it under a microscope. They may also look carefully at your skin with UV light or with a special device that provides light and magnification (dermatoscope).
Your doctor can recommend different over-the-counter or prescription creams, lotions, ointments, pills, tablets, or other medications based on what is causing your symptoms. Some skin problems may get better quickly, while others need ongoing treatment.
Steroids are a common treatment for many types of skin conditions. Additionally, many long-term skin disorders are caused by abnormal immune system reactions, so doctors may recommend medications that affect the immune system.
If your skin symptoms are caused by an underlying disorder, properly managing that condition may help. For example, diabetes can lead to sores on the skin or make it more difficult for wounds to heal. Keeping your blood sugar levels in control may also help keep your skin healthy.
Some skin problems develop due to allergies or irritation caused by latex, nickel, plants, chemicals, certain types of soaps or laundry detergent, or other substances. Avoiding these items or switching to a new brand may help relieve symptoms.
You are also less likely to have skin conditions if you follow a healthy lifestyle. Improve your skin health by quitting smoking, limiting how much alcohol you drink, keeping your stress levels low, eating a balanced diet, and taking good care of your skin through regular washing and moisturizing.