Skin covers the whole body. It keeps out dirt, germs and harmful things. But sometimes, it gets problems too. These are called common skin diseases. They affect millions of people around the world.
Some are mild, while others need medical care. Learning about common skin diseases helps people know what to look out for. Below are the seven most seen skin problems. All are explained in simple words.
7 Most Common Skin Diseases Everyone Should Know
1. Acne
Acne is a very common skin problem. It is one of the most known common skin diseases in the world. Teenagers get it often but many adults do too. It mostly appears on the face but can also show up on the back, chest and shoulders.
Acne forms when oil and dead skin block hair roots. This causes whiteheads, blackheads and pimples. Some people get big red spots that hurt. Acne can leave dark marks if not treated properly.
Washing the face, drinking water and using creams can help. Eating less oily food may also reduce acne.
2. Eczema
Eczema is one of the common skin diseases that causes the skin to become itchy, dry and red. It is also known as dermatitis. It can happen to babies, children and adults. Some people get small dry spots. Others get large patches of red, cracked skin.
Cold weather, harsh soap or stress can make eczema worse. Some people may get it due to food or dust allergies. It can come and go over time.
Moisturizing the skin daily helps a lot. Doctors may give special creams or medicine to stop the itching and heal the skin.
3. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is one of the long lasting common skin diseases. In this disease, the skin makes new cells too fast. These extra cells pile up and make thick, rough patches. The patches are usually red or white and often appear on elbows, knees or scalp.
Psoriasis is not spread from person to person. It happens when the immune system does not work properly. Stress, cold weather and infections can make it worse. The skin may feel itchy, dry or sore.
Doctors usually give special creams, light therapy or medicine to control it. There is no full cure but symptoms can be managed.
4. Rosacea
Rosacea is a skin disease that causes the face to become red. It is one of the common skin diseases seen in adults, especially people with fair skin. The redness usually appears on the nose, cheeks and forehead. In some cases, small red bumps also appear.
Sunlight, hot drinks, spicy foods and stress can make rosacea worse. The skin may feel warm, itchy or swollen. It is not caused by dirt or bad habits. It may last a long time if not treated.
Doctors can give creams or tablets to control it. Avoiding triggers also helps reduce flare ups.
5. Fungal Infections
Fungal infections are very common. They are part of common skin diseases found in both men and women. These infections are caused by fungus that grows on warm and moist skin. Examples include ringworm, athlete’s foot and jock itch.
They often show up as red, itchy patches or circles. Some infections may peel or crack the skin. These are usually seen on the feet, underarms or groin.
Fungal infections spread easily through dirty clothes, shared towels or walking barefoot in wet places. Clean habits and antifungal creams help get rid of them.
6. Vitiligo
Vitiligo is one of the common skin diseases where the skin loses its color. White patches appear on different parts of the body. This happens when the skin’s color making cells stop working or die. The reason is not always known.
It is not painful or itchy. But it may make people feel shy or sad. Vitiligo is not caused by food or infection. It can affect any skin type but it shows more clearly on dark skin.
There is no cure but treatments may help reduce the white patches. These include creams, light therapy or skin coloring.
7. Hives
Hives are raised, itchy red bumps on the skin. They appear suddenly and may come and go in a few hours. Hives are one of the common skin diseases caused by an allergic reaction. Common causes include food, medicine, insect bites or heat.
The skin may burn, sting or swell in those areas. The size of the bumps can change quickly. They may join to form larger areas. In some people, hives keep returning often.
Antihistamine tablets help reduce the itch and swelling. If breathing problems happen, a doctor should be seen right away.
Conclusion
Skin problems are faced by people of all ages. Knowing about these common skin diseases helps in early treatment and care. Many of these conditions are not serious but they can affect how someone feels about themselves.
Keeping the skin clean, drinking enough water, using gentle products and avoiding triggers are useful steps. Simple daily habits can prevent many skin diseases.
If skin problems do not go away or become worse, it is important to visit a doctor. Getting help early makes treatment easier and faster. For proper care and expert advice, Aryan Hospital offers trusted treatment. We are an Advance Multi Speciality Hospital in Gurgaon. Proper diagnosis and the right approach can help manage skin diseases and improve skin health.