Health
What to know about skin blemishes
The problem is the term for skin spots. There are many kinds of problems.
Most problems are harmful, but some people treat them for cosmetic reasons.
Some problems may indicate an underlying condition, such as skin cancer, that needs immediate treatment.
This article discusses the different types of problems people have and the treatment options available for each.
Types
There are many types of skin problems. Some examples are given below.
Eczema
Excessive oil production can have several causes.
- Hyperactivity of the sebaceous glands
- Hormonal changes during puberty, menstruation or menstruation
- Stress, anxiety, or depression can also affect your hormones.
There are different types of eggs and they also look different. Here are some examples:
Black head
There is a small black spot on the surface of the skin. They look like coated dirt, but they are actually made of oil that sits in the pores. This oil turns black when exposed to air.
White head
The legs have small, round bumps that are white or fleshy. They arise because sebum and dead skin cells clog pores.
Papules
Papules are small, red, hard bumps on the skin. This happens when excess sebum, bacteria and dead skin cells penetrate the skin and cause inflammation.
When several papules form together, they give the skin a rough, gritty texture.
Pustules
Cataracts are red bumps with yellow or white lesions. They occur when sebum, bacteria, and dead skin cells build up under the skin and become infected.
Nodules
Nodules are a serious skin problem that occur when pores become clogged. This oil mixes with dead skin cells and bacteria and becomes entangled deep in the skin. Excess sebum and bacteria can cause skin infections and inflammation.
This type of skin problem can cause acne scars.
Acne cysts
If the pore is broken, sebum and bacteria spread to the surrounding skin. Acne glands are membranes that form around an infected area.
The glands look like large, red, swollen spots. It can be very painful to communicate.
Like nodules, cysts can cause permanent scarring.
Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is a condition where the skin appears darker than other areas. Common and usually harmless.
Hyperpigmentation can be caused by genetics, sun damage or acne.
Freckles are a type of pigmentation that a person can inherit. These are small flat spots of red, brown, black or black color. Dead bodies are everywhere.
Dark or “true” spots are another form of hyperpigmentation. These small spots or blotches can appear on areas of the skin that get too much sunlight.
Scars can leave dark marks on the skin even after the acne has healed.
Melasma
Melasma is a type of skin rash that occurs during pregnancy or during treatment with birth control pills.
Hormonal changes increase the amount of melanin.
Ingrown hair
Sometimes the hairs burrow into the skin or grow sideways, causing red, itchy bumps. Doctors call these skin problems ingrown hairs.
Hair removal techniques such as waxing, shaving and plucking can all penetrate the hair follicles.
Skin cancer
Certain types of spots can be signs of skin cancer. Knowing what symptoms to look for can help people detect skin cancer early.
Some possible symptoms of skin cancer include:
- A fast-growing new mole or scar
- A spot that changes shape, size or color.
- A mole with asymmetrical or jagged edges
- More than 6 mm
A person should seek medical attention if they develop a new or unusual skin spot with any of the above characteristics.
Treatment
While many types of skin blemishes do not require treatment, some people may need treatment for cosmetic reasons. The type of skin disease determines the treatment options.
Treatment of acne
People can treat acne scars with topical creams like benzoyl peroxide.
These products help dry out the skin and kill acne-causing bacteria.
Washing your face twice a day with a cleanser that contains benzyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help treat some types of acne. Also, medications called retinoids can help clear clogged pores.
Treatment of acne may take some time to feel the effect. People may have to wait 6-8 weeks for it to work.
For persistent acne, a dermatologist may recommend topical or oral treatments. Some treatments for acne and hyperpigmentation can cause side effects.
People should discuss any side effects with a dermatologist before starting treatment.
Some people may also find certain dietary and lifestyle changes helpful in reducing stress levels and balancing hormones.
Treatment of hyperpigmentation and melasma
The following treatments can help reduce hyperpigmentation and melasma.
- A prescription drug containing hydroquinone that lightens dark spots on the skin. Hydroquinone is only available by prescription. It was previously available over the counter, but that status changed in 2021 following a decision by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
- Cream with cortisone or prescription tretinoin
- Laser therapy
In some cases, melasma disappears after giving birth or stopping hormonal birth control pills.
Treatment of ingrown hair
Here are some tips to prevent ingrown hairs:
- Use of shaving gel
- Use only clean, sharp razors.
For ingrown hairs, an exfoliating scrub can help loosen trapped hairs.
Treatment of skin cancer
Skin cancer responds well to treatment if a person starts treatment at an early stage of the disease. The type of treatment a person receives depends on the type of skin cancer. Some possible treatment options include:
- Surgical removal of cancer cells
- Topical drugs that kill cancer cells
- Radiation treatment
When should you go to the dermatologist?
Some people may consult a dermatologist if they want to treat a scar for cosmetic reasons or if the scar is causing them emotional distress.
A person should immediately consult a dermatologist if they have an area of their skin with any of the following characteristics.
- It grows fast.
- Changes in size, shape or colour
- bleeding or itching
These may be symptoms of skin cancer or other serious skin conditions that require immediate treatment.
Outlook
A scar is a mark on the skin. Most spots are harmless, but people may treat them for cosmetic reasons.
Other types of rash can be more serious. People should see a doctor or dermatologist if they develop a patch that shows any of the signs of skin cancer. This type of cancer responds well to treatment if a person starts treatment at an early stage of the disease.
People should see a doctor or dermatologist if they have concerns about skin spots or skin conditions. These medical professionals can diagnose the condition and then prescribe the appropriate treatment.