Skin Disorders : Causes, Cures, and Safeguards

Skin is the largest organ of the body. Skin protects us from germs and helps in regulating body temperature. Skin is classified in three different layers which are epidermis, dermis and hypodermis. 

Epidermis is the topmost layer of the skin which we can feel or touch. It acts as a protective barrier, makes new skin and provides skin color. Dermis is the second layer of the skin. It grows hair, makes oil, produces sweat and supplies blood. Hypodermis is the bottom layer of skin. It cushions muscles and bones, helps the nerves and bone vessels and regulates the body temperature. 

Understanding The basics of Skin Disorders

Skin has many functions such as holding in fluid and preventing dehydration, keeping out bacteria and viruses and creating vitamin D. Skin is the body’s external protection system, it is at risk for various skin disorders. Skin disorders can be temporary or permanent and can be painful or painless. Some skin disorders can cause uncomfortable symptoms, such as burning, redness, itching, and rashes. Here are some common skin disorders :

Acne 

It is the most common skin disorder and is growing in adults. It is caused by blocked hair follicles and oil glands of the skin. Acne refers to not only pimples on the face, but blackheads, cysts, and nodules as well. Acne is more common in males, during the teenage years. 

There are different types of acnes which are whiteheads, blackheads, nodules, papules, and pustules. High production of oil in the pore, buildup of dead skin cells in the pore and growth of bacteria in the pore can lead to development of acne. There are several ways to treat acne. Skin specialists recommend taking oral medications and using medicated therapies to skin. The goal of acne treatment is to stop new pimples from forming and to heal the existing blemishes on your skin.

Eczema ( Atopic dermatitis )

It is most commonly seen in children. It causes dry and itchy patches of skin. Eczema weekend skin’s barrier functions which protect the body from outer elements.

Some common types of eczema are atopic dermatitis, neurodermatitis, nummular eczema and contact dermatitis. Treatment for eczema is to prevent flares of symptoms. Doctors can provide several medications like topical corticosteroid creams and ointments,  oral medications, antibiotics and phototherapy. 

 Psoriasis

Psoriasis is the common skin disorder and long term, chronic disease with no cure. It can be painful and makes sleep hard to concentrate. Common signs include small scaling spots, cracked skin that may bleed, itching and burning. 

There are several types of psoriasis, each of which varies in its signs and symptoms such as nail psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, pustular psoriasis and plaque psoriasis. Common treatments like topical therapy, light therapy, oral medications and injected medications. 

Dermatitis

It is the general term for skin inflammation. Common types of dermatitis are atopic, contact, dyshidrotic,  and seborrheic  dermatitis. The symptoms of dermatitis range from mild to severe and will look different depending on what part of the body is affected. Symptoms may include rashes, blisters, itchy pain and swelling. 

Common triggers that can cause dermatitis include hormonal change, stress and the environment. Treatment includes light therapy and medications such as corticosteroids, antihistamines and immunosuppressants. 

Rosacea

It is the chronic swelling of the face with redness and pimples. It may also produce small, pus-filled bumps This skin disorder is common in women in their 30s. Common signs are swollen bumps, visible veins, facial flushing, eye problems and enlarged nose. 

Treatment for rosacea focuses on controlling signs and symptoms. Most often this requires a combination of good skin care and prescription drugs. Light therapy is also beneficial in case of this disease. It can make enlarged blood vessels less visible.

Sun Protection

Sunlight contains ultraviolet rays that can pass through the outer outer layers of the skin that can cause several skin disorders. Sun exposure harms more which can cause a spectrum of changes to the skin. It leads to several skin disorders such as aging skin, moles , dry and itchy skin, suntan, sunburn and most dangerous skin cancer.

There are various types of skin cancer that affect people with all different skin colors. Exposure of UV rays increases the risk of differential skin cancers. With early treatment in the form of surgical removal, these skin cancers are highly curable. 

Skin care Tips For Preventing Skin Disorders

Protect yourself from sunlight – Make a habit of using sunscreen creams. Avoid the sun between 10 am to 4 pm, when sun rays are strongest. Wear protective clothes. Wear long sleeves shirts, long pants and wide hats. 

Treat your skin gently – Limit bath time, which can remove oils from the skin. Use mild cleansers to wash the clothes. Use moisturiser, if you have a dry skin type. 

Eat a healthy diet – Eat a diet rich in fish oil, which can help you feel your best. Drinking plenty of water helps keep your skin hydrated. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.

Avoid sharing things – Avoid sharing utensils, clothes, cosmetics and personal stuff to prevent several skin disorders.