Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that causes a range of symptoms in women of reproductive age. Acne is one related condition affecting up to 30% of PCOS sufferers, which on top of other PCOS-related symptoms, adds to a feeling of anguish and low self-confidence.
Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition that typically starts off as red areas of skin, perhaps 1/2 to 1 inch wide, with a slightly raised, dry and flaky surface. It most often affects knees, elbows, lower back and around the hairline, but it can appear anywhere including in the body flexures such as the armpits or groin. It may be a little itchy, especially if the scalp is affected, but is not usually painful.
Rosacea is a common condition that causes redness on the cheeks and across the nose, and is sometimes accompanied by more persistent red bumps, known as papules or pustules if they have a yellow center. Its full name is actually acne rosacea. Episodes of flushing may precede a more persistent redness. Certain triggers are thought to cause blood vessels just under the skin to widen, becoming more visible and causing the redness, but the underlying cause is not well understood. It is common in those aged 30 to 60, and in fair-skinned/blue-eyed people. The exact cause remains unknown, but triggers for its development include sun damage, leaky tiny blood vessels under the skin, a skin mite called Demodex folliculorum, and a family history of rosacea. It is not contagious, so you cannot catch it from someone else.
A squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is usually a firm pink or red lump and typically occurs in sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, forearms and hands, shoulder, upper chest, and back. It might feel tender to press, it may develop a solid horny lump sticking up, and it can sometimes ulcerate, giving a wet appearance. This grows slowly over weeks, months, or even years. It usually occurs in people over 50, in response to years of sun damage. While skin cancers all develop in response to sun damage, and similar risk factors make some more susceptible than others, there are different types of skin cancer. Melanoma is the most well-known but the least common. This is where a new mole appears or an existing mole changes. SCC is a different process and doesn't usually start as a mole.
Psoriasis is a long-term condition that causes thickened patches on the skin. It may only affect the scalp, or you might have other patches on your body. It can be intensely itchy and, in a mild form, may cause red patches, usually at the back of the head and extending to the neck or behind the ears. In a more severe form, thickened plaque may cause temporary hair loss, which requires stronger and more prolonged treatment.
We have all grown more aware of the dangers of sun exposure in recent years, with the threat of sun damage altering our appearance and the risk of skin cancer. There are different types of skin cancer, but there are some rules of thumb to follow for any mole, whether it’s new or existing. Let's take you through when to be concerned.
Healthcare professionals use a steroid ladder for prescribing topical creams to patients, often starting with the mildest possible steroid before moving on to the next one up the ladder. Steroid creams, also known as topical corticosteroids, work by exerting anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects on the skin. The active ingredients in these creams are synthetic versions of corticosteroids, which are hormones naturally produced by the adrenal glands. How do steroid creams work? The primary mechanism of action involves the modulation of various cellular processes in the skin to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with certain skin conditions. Here's a breakdown of how steroid creams work: Anti-Inflammatory Steroids inhibit the inflammatory response in the skin. Inflammation is a complex process involving the release of various chemical mediators, such as prostaglandins and cytokines, which contribute to redness, swelling, and itching. Corticosteroids interfere with the production of these inflammatory mediators, leading to a reduction in the inflammatory response. This helps to alleviate the symptoms of skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. Immunosuppressive effects Corticosteroids have immunosuppressive properties, meaning they suppress the activity of the immune system. In the context of skin conditions, this is beneficial because many skin disorders involve an abnormal immune response. By dampening the immune response locally, steroid creams help control the excessive immune activity responsible for inflammation and tissue damage in certain skin conditions. Inhibition of immune cells Corticosteroids act on various immune cells, particularly T lymphocytes, which play a key role in the inflammatory process. They inhibit the activation and function of these immune cells, reducing their ability to produce inflammatory substances. This inhibition helps break the cycle of inflammation and prevents further damage to the skin. How steroid creams are applied Steroid creams are usually applied topically to the affected skin areas. The cream or ointment is spread thinly and evenly over the affected area. The frequency of application and the duration of treatment depend on the specific medication, the severity of the condition, and the guidance of the prescribing healthcare professional. It's important to follow the prescribed regimen and not to use more than recommended, as excessive use can lead to side effects. Important considerations Steroid creams are generally effective, but their use requires caution. Prolonged or inappropriate use can lead to side effects, including skin atrophy (thinning), striae (stretch marks), and telangiectasia (dilated blood vessels). Stronger formulations are typically reserved for more severe conditions and are often used for shorter durations under close medical supervision. Steroid creams should not be used on the face for extended periods, especially around the eyes, as the skin in these areas is more sensitive.
This is a rash where the skin becomes inflamed, appearing on greasy areas with lots of sebaceous glands - on the cheeks, between eyebrows, the folds next to the nose and the chin, and also on the chest or scalp. Red, greasy, scaly, or flaky patches are common, and little red bumps known as papules may appear. It can cause a mild itch, but the appearance prompts most sufferers to seek treatment. It is considered a type of eczema but can also overlap with psoriasis and rosacea. Stress, tiredness, and cold weather can prompt flare-ups in those susceptible. An overgrowth of a usually harmless yeast (scientific name: Malassezia) is thought to be part of the cause, so treatment focuses on eradicating this and reducing inflammation using a combined antifungal and mild steroid cream.
Enjoying the sun is one of the best ways to absorb vitamin D, but it can also increase the risk of skin cancers if not appropriately protected. While wearing any sunscreen is better than not wearing any, finding the right sunscreen can make a huge difference in protection from the sun. Other protection includes physical protection, such as clothes, accessories or staying in the shade.
Sunburn is when excessive exposure to the sun damages the skin causing it to become red, inflamed, and painful. The majority of cases can be self-treated. Sunburn is an example of a first-degree (superficial) burn - the skin is red, painful and very sensitive to touch, and the damaged skin may be slightly moist from leakage of the fluid in the deeper layers of the skin. Sunburn, caused by the UVB rays in sunlight, is common, but it also increases your risk of developing skin cancer later in life, so it's important to avoid this by using sun-safe practices. These include using adequate sun cream (SPF 30 and above, UVA and UVB protection), covering up with hats and clothes, and avoiding the sun altogether on summer days between 11 am and 3 pm.
Creams, ointments, and gels are all effective in treating skin conditions, but each one differs in its specific properties. Individually, they can treat a specific type of condition particularly effectively. In this article, we will explain some of the properties each one has and why it can be beneficial in certain situations.
Chicken skin, also known as keratosis pilaris, is a very common skin condition, where the skin gets bumpy and red, resembling chicken skin or goosebumps. It typically occurs on the upper outer arms and thighs, where hair follicles get blocked with pockets of keratin, a thick tough substance that helps to protect the skin. Bumps can be red, gray or flesh colored, and skin feels rough, dry and sometimes itchy. This condition affects up to half of the population, running in families and appearing most commonly in adolescence, with improvement usually in adulthood. It is completely harmless, but people become concerned with the appearance.