Common Skin Problems and How to Deal with Them

Skin, being the largest organ in our body, although resilient, can also find itself plagued with issues. Dermatological skin problems are highly prevalent in health challenges worldwide. More so, that it can affect approximately 1.8 billion people at any point, stated a WHO study.

However, differentiating between the types of skin diseases and understanding their causes can help you learn practical approaches to address these effectively. Allow us to detail the nuances of dermatological skin issues in the article below.

Keynotes:

• Skin problems are a major concern worldwide, encompassing acne, eczema, pigmentation and more.
• All of these types of skin problems have multifaceted causes, which may range from genetics, environmental factors, underlying medical conditions, hormonal issues, etc.
• Understanding these nuances can help you identify the concern promptly and seek professional help for targeted treatment.
• Effective skincare routine, lifestyle changes and consistent treatment can help manage the conditions in the long term.

Here is a list that details the most frequently encountered skin problems by adults:

Acne, Dryness, Sensitivity

1. Acne Vulgaris

Acne is an inflammatory skin disorder that is characterized by elevated lesions on the skin. It affects more than 85% of individuals (12 to 24 ages) and manifests into comedones (whiteheads, blackheads), inflammatory acne (papules, pustules) and cystic lesions (nodules and cysts).

Teenage acne may appear during puberty, whereas adult acne presents itself due to a string of factors. These are related to genetics, lifestyle choices and hormonal imbalances, occuring along the face, neck, chest, arms, upper back (bacne) and shoulders.

2. Dryness

Xeroderma, often referred to as dry skin, is a condition that leaves the skin with insufficient moisture and a compromised barrier. The condition results in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) wherein the natural moisture retention mechanism of the skin is hindered, leading to flaking, tightness and vulnerability to infections.

Skin Dryness may not be entirely caused by external elements like lifestyle factors, low humidity environment and harsh products, but also due to certain medications, hormonal fluctuations, and medical conditions such as thyroid disorders.

3. Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin is a skin type on its own, defined by strong reactivity to certain environmental factors, chemicals and cosmetic products. The effects may manifest in redness, stinging, itching, or even burning at times.

Skin sensitivity can be triggered by certain fragrances, dyes, essential oils, and actives in higher concentrations. Hence, individuals with sensitive skin types are advised to run a patch test each time before testing out a new product for their skin.

Pigmentation, Eczema, and Psoriasis

1. Pigmentation

Pigmentation is a natural process that determines the color of our skin, however, hyperpigmentation, is a disorder. This arises as darker patches when unregulated amounts of melanin are deposited onto the skin.

Types of skin diseases associated with hyperpigmentation include melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, freckles, and sun spots. Each type is caused by diverse factors and will need a comprehensive treatment to manage the condition.

2. Eczema

Also known as atopic dermatitis, eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that presents itself in itchy, red, dry, and scaly patches. As a skin condition, eczema has a fluctuating nature and is caused by genetic predisposition (e.g., the filaggrin gene (FLG)), immune dysregulation, or environmental triggers that disrupt its barrier function.

Common triggers of atopic dermatitis include harsh surfactants, allergens (pet dander and dust mites), as well as stress, food, bacterial infections and other environmental factors. The condition is more common in children than in adults.

3. Psoriasis

Psoriasis, on the other hand, is much more common in adults and older individuals. It is a chronic condition that triggers rapid skin turnover resulting in thick, red, silvery scaly patches across the scalp, elbows and knees.

It is a long-lasting skin condition, related to genetic factors and immune dysfunction. Various factors that can aggravate the condition are infections, smoking, obesity, and certain medications (e.g., for heart disease, mental health, or malaria).

Through these types of skin diseases, we can understand that their etiology is multifactorial. Let us explore some of them below:

1. Genetic predisposition

Yes, much like your behavior and physical aspects, genes are also a determining factor in your susceptibility to various skin conditions. It can influence your barrier function, immune system and inflammatory responses.

We commonly see genetics playing a part in conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, as well as various types of pigmentation and acne.

2. Environmental Factors

The moment you step out, your skin comes in contact with the brutal effects of ultraviolet radiation, air pollution, and irregular climate conditions.

While UV rays are a significant contributor towards skin damage, hyperpigmentation and skin cancer, pollution exacerbates the condition by inducing free radicals. This can collectively cause oxidative stress and damage the skin cells further.

3. Hormonal Fluctuations

Apart from growth, metabolism, and mood, hormones can also impact your skin physiology. For instance, androgens like testosterone can trigger sebaceous gland activity, resulting in Hormonal acne. On the other hand, estrogen and progesterone imbalance during the menstrual cycle or pregnancy can trigger hyperpigmentation disorders such as melasma as well.

4. Underlying Conditions and Medications

Certain skin conditions, such as thyroid disorders or diabetes, can disrupt the skin’s metabolism. This exposes it to infections and deters wound healing. Moreover, medications like antibiotics, blood pressure medications or antimalarials can also hinder the immune system and aggravate various types of skin diseases.

5. Lifestyle Choices

Irregular and unhealthy diet, stress, and sleep deprivation can worsen existing skin conditions. Consuming processed foods and meals with a high glycemic index can influence insulin resistance in the body. Whereas, chronic stress can elevate cortisol levels in the body, thus increasing inflammatory responses and worsening issues such as eczema and psoriasis.

• Maintain a Regular Skincare Routine

Tailor your skin care routine to your skin type and condition for effective management. For instance, if you are dealing with hyperpigmentation, then your skincare steps will also include anti-pigment products such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, vitamin C or thiamidol.

Pair this over a cleansed face with a soothing moisturizer and high-performing sunscreen with SPF 50. Building a routine can systematically safeguard your skin’s resilience against environmental stressors that trigger skin sensitivity.

• Choose Actives For Your Skin Concern

Your dermatologist may recommend specific actives to treat severe skin conditions, such as cystic acne, eczema, psoriasis, or hyperpigmentation. For mild acne, however, one can try solutions such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid or invest in gentle acne products to effectively control and reduce inflammation in the skin.

• Prioritise Hydration

Since dryness can increase your susceptibility to a range of skin issues, one must counter it with hydrating moisturizers. Incorporate humectants such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin to draw moisture into the skin, occlusives to soften the skin, and emollients to protect it from water loss. Look for dermatologically proven hydrating Hyaluronic products to soothe potential irritants and boost skin health.

Skin concerns need immediate professional diagnosis to understand their scope and deter adverse reactions. These are some of the characteristics one should look out for:

• Persistent skin irritation or rashes that do not respond to OTC treatments.
• Worsening skin conditions, such as a change in the shape, size or color of the acne, scar or patch.
• Scarring in the facial (or other) area that does not resolve with OTC treatments.
• Painful, stubborn acne (pustules, nodules or cysts) may result in scarring and should be managed professionally.

Moreover, if you are confused about your skin concern diagnosis, a dermatologist should be your first line of action towards supporting your skin health in the long term.

Skin problems, such as dryness, eczema, psoriasis, pigmentation and acne, are quite common and may affect individuals at some point in their lives. This reinforces the need for proper skin health education and management strategies to minimize its impact not only on your health but also on your mental well-being. Begin your journey towards healthy skin with Eucerin Products today.

1. What are the most common skin problems people face?

   Skin conditions are complex and manifest in a wide variety, depending on their manifestation and severity. Some common skin problems that many people face are acne, dryness and hyperpigmentation.

2. How to identify different types of skin problems?

   To best identify different types of skin diseases, one must diligently observe the severity of the concern, changes in the color, size or texture, and note any associated symptoms. For instance, worsening acne conditions can appear as red, inflamed, painful bumps. Whereas, eczema may turn the skin red, itchy and scaly. Worsening pigmentation patches should be immediately diagnosed by a professional to rule out melanoma or skin cancer.

3. What skincare routine is best for common skin issues?

   One skin routine cannot suit all skin issues; you must simply personalize your steps to fit your skin type, condition and purpose. Begin with a gentle cleanser to create a clean base, and follow with a targeted serum to address your specific skin concern. These can include salicylic acid for acne, vitamin C for a collagen boost, and hyaluronic acid for hydration. After which, apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer and protect your skin from the sun with a sunscreen with SPF 50.

• Aad.org - Skin conditions by the numbers
• nih.gov - Eczema
• nih.gov - Psoriasis
• nih.gov - Acne Vulgaris
• nih.gov - Dry skin in dermatology
• nih.gov - Sensitive skin: review of an ascending concept
• nih.gov - Acne
• Healthcare.utah - When Should You See a Dermatologist?
• Who.int - WHO’s first global meeting on skin NTDs calls for greater efforts to address their burden
• yalemedicine - Acne (Acne Vulgaris)