Common Skin Disorders

Common Skin Disorders

Skin disorders are pervasive and can affect people of all ages. While some are temporary and harmless, others may need medical attention to prevent complications or scarring. Understanding the basics—how they appear, what causes them, and how to manage them—helps you take informed action and care for your skin effectively. Here’s a clear overview of the most common skin conditions you’re likely to encounter.

Acne

Acne is the most widespread skin issue, especially among teenagers and young adults, although it can occur at any age. It happens when hair follicles become clogged with sebum (oil), dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria.

Symptoms: Whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, cysts, and nodules—commonly on the face, back, chest, and shoulders.

Common triggers: Hormonal changes, stress, oily cosmetics, certain medications, and high-sugar diets.

Care tips

Use gentle cleansers and non-comedogenic skin products.

Avoid picking or squeezing pimples to prevent scars.

Severe or painful acne may require dermatologist treatments, such as retinoids or antibiotics.

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes intense itching and patches of dry, cracked skin. It often starts in childhood and may come and go in flare-ups.

Symptoms: Itchy rashes, dry rough patches, redness, and sometimes fluid-filled bumps.

Triggers: Allergies, soaps, stress, temperature changes, wool clothing, dust mites.

Care tips

Moisturise frequently with fragrance-free creams.

Use lukewarm—not hot—water when bathing.

Avoid triggers and harsh detergents.

Steroid creams may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease where the skin cells multiply faster than normal, creating thick, scaly patches.

Symptoms: Raised red plaques covered with silvery scales, often on elbows, scalp, and knees; may cause joint pain (psoriatic arthritis).

Triggers: Stress, smoking, alcohol, infections, cold weather.

Care tips

Moisturise regularly to reduce dryness and flaking.

Light therapy and medicated creams can help.

For severe cases, biologic injections or systemic medications may be required.

Fungal Infections

These are caused by fungi that thrive in moist environments such as locker rooms, shared shoes, and sweaty skin. Common kinds include ringworm, athlete’s foot, and fungal nail infection.

Symptoms: Itchy circular patches (ringworm), cracking skin between toes (athlete’s foot), thick, brittle nails (nail fungus).

Care tips

Keep skin dry, especially feet and groin.

Wear clean cotton socks and breathable footwear.

Antifungal creams or oral medications may be needed.

Rosacea

Rosacea mainly affects the face, causing persistent redness and visible blood vessels that may worsen over time.

Symptoms: Facial flushing, small bumps, burning sensation, acne-like breakouts.

Triggers: Sun exposure, hot drinks, spicy foods, alcohol, stress.

Care tips

Use sunscreen daily.

Avoid personal triggers that cause flare-ups.

Dermatologists may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics.

Vitiligo

Vitiligo is a condition where the skin loses pigment due to the destruction of melanin cells, resulting in white patches.

Symptoms: White, smooth patches on face, hands, joints, lips, or around body openings.

Causes: Autoimmune factors and genetics.

Treatment options

Phototherapy to stimulate repigmentation.

Cosmetic camouflage products.

Depigmentation therapy for widespread cases.

Hives (Urticaria)

Hives appear suddenly as red or skin-colored welts that itch and vary in size.

Triggers: Allergies, medicines, insect bites, infections, extreme weather, stress.

Care tips

Antihistamines help control symptoms.

For persistent or chronic hives, medical evaluation is important.

When to See a Dermatologist

Seek medical help if you notice

Persistent rashes or sudden spreading patches

Painful swelling, pus, or fever

Suspicious moles that change shape or colour

Severe itching affecting sleep or daily life

Final Thoughts

Healthy skin needs protection, hydration, and awareness. While home care works for mild disorders, don’t ignore persistent problems—early diagnosis prevents complications and improves long-term results. A balanced lifestyle, good hygiene, stress control, and sun protection are powerful tools for maintaining strong, clear skin.