Skin can be an indicator of both physical and emotional wellbeing, and many people suffer from different conditions that can cause irritation and discomfort. In this article, we’re going to take a look at three of the most common skin conditions – Acne, Eczema, and Psoriasis - as well as some tips to avoiding them or managing your symptoms. Read on to discover more about these conditions and how to best deal with them.
1. Taking Control of Your Skin Health: Dealing with Acne, Eczema & Psoriasis
Achieving good skin health and managing skin conditions can be a challenge. Acne, eczema and psoriasis can be deeply frustrating and demoralizing. Don’t despair! There are ways to manage and take control of your skin health. Here is an overview of the conditions and how to look after your skin:
- Acne: Acne occurs when the pores on the skin become clogged with trapped oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. To manage acne it is important to establish an effective skin care routine focusing on gentle cleansing and using products formulated specifically for acne-prone skin. Avoiding excessive washing, touching the face with dirty hands, and using oils or greasy cosmetics should also be avoided.
- Eczema: Eczema is a skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Proper skin care is crucial to managing eczema. Avoid potential irritants, like detergents, perfumes and certain fabrics. Gentle cleansing, moisturizer application, and protection from the sun are also important steps to managing eczema. If home remedies don’t work, it’s best to consult a dermatologist.
- Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a condition caused by an over-active immune system that causes skin cells to grow faster than normal. To manage this condition, reduce exposure to things that can irritate the skin, such as stress, cigarette smoke, and alcohol. It is also important to keep the skin moist and avoid over washing; topical treatments, light therapy, and systemic medications can be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms.
Managing skin conditions doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right habits and treatments, these skin issues can be managed and good skin health can be achieved!
2. The Lowdown on Acne: Causes & Treatments
Acne is an incredibly common skin condition that affects millions of people all over the world. Whether it’s a few rogue pimples here and there or persistent cystic acne, understanding the potential causes and treatments can be the first step to reducing breakouts. Here’s a lowdown of what you need to know.
Common Causes of Acne
The exact cause of acne isn’t always known, but some of the more common factors trigger your body to start producing more sebum, an oil that can build up in skin and cause breakouts. These triggering factors may include:
- Hormonal fluctuations due to puberty, pregnancy, or certain medications
- Stress
- Using cosmetics that are overly harsh or oily
- Genetics
- Bacteria on the skin
How to Effectively Treat Acne
Fortunately, there is an abundance of ways to treat and control acne including topical medications, laser therapy, and even natural treatments. Because everyone’s skin is unique, it’s best to speak to a doctor, dermatologist, or even a trusted beauty professional to find the best fit for your skin. However, here are some of the more common treatments to consider:
- OTC creams and gels containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid
- Antibiotics (oral or topical )
- Retinoids (prescription topical medications)
- Azelaic acid
- Oral Contraceptives
- Chemical peels
Educating yourself on the causes and treatments for acne can be a great first step in figuring out how to reduce breakouts. If you’re looking for more advice on holistic remedies, you can also consult with a doctor, dermatologist, or beauty professional for more tailored advice.
3. Tackling the Itch of Eczema
Living with eczema can be incredibly tricky, not least because of the irritating and persistent itch that comes with it. In this article, we’re going to cover three diffent ways of tackling the itch – all of which can help to reduce the discomfort of eczema.
Calamine Lotion
Aside from a soothing ointment, one of the best ways of dealing with the itch of eczema is calamine lotion. Available over the counter, it’s a low-cost topical solution that can provide effective relief from obvious symptoms. Making sure to cover the area with a thin layer of the lotion twice a day can help to keep the discomfort of the itch to a minimum.
Warm Baths
Coupled with the lotion, taking a warm bath with an oatmeal-based bath powder can be a powerful way of reducing itching from eczema. The added benefit is that the bath will soften the skin – allowing you to apply the lotion more easily.
To further improve the bath’s effectiveness, you can add light soap and a capful of non-toxic mineral oil to the water as well. Whenever you do this, make sure to limit the time spent in the bath to just 10 minutes and dry off thoroughly afterwards.
Moisturize Immediately
The other important thing to bear in mind when tackling itching related to eczema is to moisturize immediately after you’ve left your bath. Make sure your skin is completely dry before applying the moisturizer, as this will help to keep the benefits locked in more effectively.
Some great options for natural moisturizers include:
- Shea Butter
- Coconut Oil
- Aloe Vera
By following these three essential steps, you’ll be able to enjoy much more relief from the irritating and constant itch of eczema – a process which can help to make the condition much more manageable.
4. Uncovering the Causes of Psoriasis
Delve into the Genetics
Psoriasis can be an inherited condition, and studies indicate that the condition is tied to certain genetic markers. Thankfully, understanding the genetic component has allowed researchers to study psoriasis in greater detail, uncovering more information about its root causes. With greater information about the genes behind psoriasis, the medical and science community can better understand why the condition is triggered and how it can be managed.
Fordpin to the Immune System
In some ways, psoriasis is an autoimmune condition. Anytime it occurs, it’s because of an imbalance within the body, most notably with the immune system. The immune system gets thrown off and causes inflammation, which leads to the telltale symptom of psoriasis: the raised, red skin patches. By studying how psoriasis is linked to the immune system, medical professionals may be able to develop treatments that more effectively manage the condition in the future.
Explore the Environmental Factors
Though it’s true that psoriasis is related to underlying genetics and the immune system, it’s also believed that environmental factors can play a considerable role in how the condition takes shape. Certain stressors, such as a weakened immune system due to an illness or the use of certain medications, can cause psoriasis to flare up. It’s important for those with psoriasis to identify potential environmental factors, as those can be managed and avoided.
Try Out Different Things
The origins of psoriasis are still being researched and studied, so a one-size-fits-all approach to managing the condition isn’t available yet. To that end, it’s important for those with psoriasis to experiment with different lifestyle changes, proposed remedies, and medications in order to find the right solution for them. Even if changes don’t have an impact on the psoriasis itself, making adjustments in other areas of life can lead to a greater quality of life all around.
5. Treatment Strategies for Managing Common Skin Conditions
Hydration is key for managing many skin conditions. Be sure to drink plenty of water each day to help keep your skin healthy and hydrated. Also, use a high-quality moisturizer to keep your skin moist and protect it from the elements.
Topical Treatments are commonly used to manage skin conditions. Many different topical treatments are available, including creams, lotions, ointments, and medicated wipes. Be sure to consult your doctor before trying any of the treatments, as some may interact with medications or cause adverse effects.
Oral Medications can be useful in managing certain skin conditions. Oral antibiotics may be prescribed to fight infection, while corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and reduce the symptoms associated with certain skin conditions. If your doctor prescribes oral medication for your skin condition, be sure to take it as directed for the best results.
Light Therapy is sometimes used to treat skin conditions. This involves exposing the affected area to special light sources that can help reduce inflammation and inflammation-related symptoms. These treatments should only be performed under the supervision of a qualified medical professional.
Surgery may be necessary in extreme cases of skin conditions. Surgical procedures may be used to remove tumors, reduce scarring, or address other issues associated with certain skin conditions. Be sure to discuss all possible treatment options with your doctor before deciding which one is right for you.
The conditions of acne, eczema, and psoriasis can cause physical and emotional distress, but with proper education and care you can live at peace with your skin. With a little research and the right treatment regimen, these common skin afflictions can be managed and even treated to a degree. Your skin is your body’s canvas, so adorn it with love and knowledge!
