Skin Conditions

Acne can manifest differently for everyone, but common signs include: blackheads and whiteheads (plugged pores due to excess oil and dead skin cells), pimples (small red bumps that may contain pus), and nodules and cysts (deeper, painful bumps forming under the skin).

Several factors contribute to acne: increased oil production (hormones, genetics, and certain medications can stimulate oil glands), plugged pores (dead skin cells and excess oil can clog pores, trapping bacteria and inflammation), and bacterial overgrowth (Cutibacterium acnes contributes to inflammation and pimple formation).

Acne is incredibly common, affecting most people at some point in their lives, primarily during adolescence due to hormonal changes. However, adults can also experience acne.

Consistent treatment is key. Don't pick or squeeze — this can worsen inflammation and scarring. Be gentle with your skin, as harsh scrubbing or products can irritate it. Dermatologists can assess your specific acne type and recommend the most effective treatment plan. Acne can impact self-esteem, but keep in mind that you are not alone — seek support from healthcare professionals if needed.

Eczema appears as dry, scaly, red patches, often with scratch marks, and in severe cases with weeping or cracked skin. In adults it most commonly affects the insides of the elbows and the backs of the knees, along with the wrists, neck and face. In infants and young children it often appears on the face and torso.

The skin barrier is impaired, so irritants and allergens penetrate more easily and moisture evaporates out — a mutation in the filaggrin gene is a common cause. At the same time the immune system is tuned towards an allergic type of inflammation and overreacts to house dust mites, pet dander or soap. Eczema runs in families alongside asthma and hay fever.

Up to 20% of all children have atopic dermatitis. The condition often develops in the first year of life and improves for many during childhood or the teenage years. Adults can have eczema too, especially where asthma, hay fever or eczema runs in the family. People doing wet work or washing their hands frequently are particularly exposed.

A moisturiser at least twice daily — including between flares — is the most important daily treatment. During flares, corticosteroid cream suppresses inflammation and itching; mild hydrocortisone 1% is available over the counter, while stronger steroids need a prescription. Calcineurin inhibitors such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus are a steroid-free option for the face and neck. For severe eczema a dermatologist can offer biological treatment, JAK inhibitors or phototherapy.

Rosacea typically presents as flushing and redness of the central face, thin visible blood vessels (telangiectasia) on the cheeks and nose, and red papules that can resemble acne. In severe cases the skin on the nose can thicken (rhinophyma), and the eyes can become red and irritated (ocular rosacea).

The exact cause is unknown, but contributing factors include overactive blood vessels in the face, inflammatory reactions triggered by sunlight, certain foods and mites, and genetic predisposition. Research also suggests that imbalances in gut bacteria may play a role.

Rosacea is most common in fair-skinned adults with light hair or eyes, particularly those of Celtic or Northern European descent. The condition is most frequent in adults between 40 and 50 years old, and those with a family history of rosacea are at increased risk.

Rosacea can be managed with topical medications such as metronidazole and azelaic acid, oral antibiotics for moderate to severe rosacea, and laser therapy for visible blood vessels. It is essential to identify and avoid personal triggers such as spicy food, alcohol and sunlight, and to use gentle, fragrance-free skincare with sunscreen.

Urticaria appears as raised, red wheals with pale centres that can range from a few millimetres to several centimetres in size. The wheals are intensely itchy, can appear anywhere on the body, and may merge into larger areas. An individual wheal typically resolves within 1–24 hours without leaving a mark.

Urticaria occurs when mast cells release histamine in the skin. Triggers include allergens (nuts, shellfish, penicillin, insect stings), physical factors (pressure, cold, heat, sunlight, exercise) and internal factors (infections, stress, autoimmune conditions). In up to 50% of chronic cases no cause can be identified (idiopathic).

Anyone can get urticaria, but it is more common in adults. Acute urticaria is most frequent in children and young adults, while chronic urticaria most often affects women aged 20–40. Up to 20% of people experience hives at some point in their lives.

Non-sedating antihistamines (cetirizine, loratadine) are the primary treatment and work best with regular dosing. Identify and avoid your personal trigger — a symptom diary and allergy testing can help. Seek emergency help immediately for throat swelling or breathing difficulty, as this may indicate anaphylaxis. Chronic urticaria can be treated with biologics such as omalizumab.

An outbreak typically begins with tingling or itching in the affected area (prodromal phase), followed by clusters of fluid-filled blisters that are painful. The blisters burst and form crusts, with symptoms usually clearing within 2–4 weeks during the first outbreak and more quickly during subsequent outbreaks.

HSV spreads through direct contact with infected skin or bodily fluids and establishes itself latently in sensory nerve cells. Outbreaks can be triggered by stress, a weakened immune system, sun exposure, hormonal changes or febrile illness. The virus can also be transmitted asymptomatically (without visible blisters).

HSV is extremely widespread. The WHO estimates that approximately 67% of the global population under 50 carries HSV-1, while approximately 11% carry HSV-2. Many infected individuals never experience noticeable symptoms and do not know they are infected.

There is no cure for HSV, but antiviral medications such as aciclovir, valaciclovir or famciclovir can shorten and reduce the severity of outbreaks. For frequent outbreaks, daily suppressive therapy is recommended. Open communication with sexual partners and condom use reduces transmission risk. Seek professional help for frequent outbreaks or during pregnancy.

Genital warts often resemble small, flat, skin-coloured bumps or small, cauliflower-like growths. They can be single or form clusters. In women they are typically found on the labia, inside the vagina, on the cervix or around the anus; in men on the penis, scrotum or around the anus. They rarely hurt, but can itch or bleed.

HPV spreads through vaginal, oral or anal intercourse and through close skin-to-skin contact in the genital area. The virus can be passed on even when the infected person has no visible warts. Condoms reduce the risk but do not remove it, as warts can sit on areas a condom does not cover. It takes weeks to months from infection to visible warts.

HPV types 6 and 11 cause approximately 90% of all genital wart cases and are classed as low-risk because they rarely cause cancer. Anyone who is sexually active can be infected, and rates are highest in young adults. Smokers and people with a weakened immune system develop warts more often, and the warts recur more often.

Genital warts often clear on their own, but many people choose treatment: creams applied at home, freezing (cryotherapy), surgical removal, laser or electrosurgery. The choice depends on the size, number and location of the warts. The best prevention is HPV vaccination (Gardasil 9), which protects against 9 HPV types, and consistent condom use reduces the risk further.

Shingles typically begins with burning pain or tingling in a specific area (prodromal phase), followed by a red rash in a band along the nerve pathway — most often on the torso, but possibly the face or near the eyes. Within days fluid-filled blisters develop, burst and form yellow crusts. Healing usually takes 2–4 weeks.

Shingles occurs when the immune system is no longer strong enough to keep the varicella-zoster virus dormant. The key factors are age (risk increases markedly after 50), a weakened immune system (e.g. from HIV, cancer or immunosuppressive medication) and severe stress that temporarily impairs immune function.

Anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles. Approximately one in three people will be affected during their lifetime. Risk increases sharply after age 50, and adults over 80 have 8–10 times the risk of those in their 20s. Immunocompromised individuals are particularly vulnerable and may experience more severe outbreaks.

Seek medical care the same day — do not wait for a 48-hour online reply if you suspect shingles. Antiviral medications such as valaciclovir or aciclovir are most effective within 72 hours of rash onset. Vaccination (Shingrix) is recommended for all adults over 50 and reduces the risk by up to 90%. Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) — persistent pain after healing — is the most common complication; early treatment is the best prevention.

The classic sign of body ringworm is a circular, red, itchy patch with a raised border and often a clear centre — hence the name. Athlete's foot causes itching, scaling and burning between the toes. Scalp ringworm causes scaling and hair loss. Nail infection causes discoloured, thickened and crumbly nails.

Dermatophytes thrive in warm, moist environments. Heavy sweating, tight-fitting clothing, sharing personal items such as towels and shoes, contact with infected animals, and time spent in locker rooms and shared showers all increase the risk. A weakened immune system makes you more vulnerable to severe infections.

Anyone can get ringworm, but children are particularly prone to tinea capitis (scalp ringworm). Athletes and active people have an increased risk of athlete's foot and tinea cruris (groin ringworm). People living in close-quarters settings such as dormitories and nursing homes, pet owners, and immunocompromised individuals are also more vulnerable.

Topical antifungals (clotrimazole, miconazole, terbinafine) are effective for mild tinea corporis, tinea cruris and athlete's foot — treat for at least 2 weeks after symptoms disappear. Tinea capitis and nail infection always require prescription oral treatment. Treat infected pets, and avoid sharing towels and shoes to prevent reinfection.

Vitiligo presents as smooth, white and clearly defined patches on the skin. The patches can range from a few millimetres to large areas of the body and most commonly appear on the face, hands, arms and legs. In some cases, hair in the affected areas also loses its colour. The condition can appear symmetrically on both sides (generalised vitiligo) or be limited to one area (focal vitiligo).

Vitiligo is caused by an autoimmune reaction in which T-lymphocytes attack melanocytes. Genetic predisposition plays an important role — 20–30% of people with vitiligo have a family member with the same condition. Triggering factors may include severe stress, skin injury (Köbner phenomenon) and sunburn. Vitiligo is also associated with an increased risk of other autoimmune diseases such as thyroid disease and alopecia areata.

Vitiligo affects approximately 1–2% of the world's population regardless of race, ethnicity, gender or age. Half of all cases begin before the age of 20. The risk is elevated with a family history of vitiligo or other autoimmune diseases. The condition is often more visible — and psychologically distressing — in people with darker skin tones.

There is no cure for vitiligo, but treatments such as topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, narrowband UVB light therapy and new JAK inhibitors (ruxolitinib) can slow the spread and help with repigmentation. Always use sunscreen SPF 30+ on depigmented areas as they burn easily. Seek a dermatologist early — the sooner treatment begins, the better the outlook.

Typical signs include redness and swelling on the affected areas, intense itching and burning sensations, small blisters or bumps, and in chronic cases dry, cracked and scaly skin. The rash typically appears on the hands, wrists, arms and face.

Irritant contact dermatitis occurs when a substance directly damages the skin barrier — examples include soaps, detergents and solvents. Allergic contact dermatitis involves a delayed immune reaction against an allergen such as nickel, fragrances or latex. Both types can be triggered by stress and underlying skin conditions.

Anyone can develop contact dermatitis. People with atopic eczema are more susceptible due to a weakened skin barrier. Occupations with high exposure to chemicals — hairdressers, laboratory workers, mechanics and healthcare workers — have elevated risk. Nickel allergy is one of the most common contact allergies globally.

Identify and avoid the trigger — this is the most important step. Corticosteroid creams are the standard treatment for inflammation and itching. Wear protective gloves, choose fragrance-free products, and keep the skin moisturised with gentle moisturisers. For severe allergic dermatitis, a dermatologist may recommend stronger topical steroids or other medications.

Lichen planus typically presents as purple, flat-topped bumps with fine, white lines on the surface (Wickham striae). The bumps can be intensely itchy and appear anywhere on the body, but are most common on the wrists, ankles, lower back and oral mucosa.

The exact cause is unknown, but autoimmune reactions, certain medications (blood pressure drugs, NSAIDs), hepatitis C infection and stress are all thought to play a role in triggering the condition.

Lichen planus can affect anyone at any age, but most commonly occurs in adults between 30 and 60 years old and is more prevalent in women. People with autoimmune conditions have an elevated risk.

There is no cure, but topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, light therapy and in severe cases oral retinoids can relieve symptoms. Stress management is an important part of treatment, as stress can worsen flare-ups.

Alopecia areata typically appears as well-defined, round or oval patches of hair loss on the scalp. The patches are usually smooth and without scaling. Hair loss can also affect the beard, eyebrows, eyelashes and other body areas.

Alopecia areata is caused by an autoimmune reaction in which T-cells mistakenly attack and destroy hair follicles. Genetics, stress and certain other autoimmune diseases can contribute to triggering the condition.

Anyone can develop alopecia areata, but the condition often begins in childhood or early adulthood. Approximately 2% of the population is affected at some point in their lives, and there is frequently a family history of alopecia or other autoimmune diseases.

Yes, although there is no single cure, effective treatments exist. These include topical corticosteroids, intralesional steroid injections, immunotherapy and newer JAK inhibitors such as baricitinib and ritlecitinib. Treatment is chosen based on severity and individual factors.

Psoriasis typically presents as thick, raised patches with silvery-white scales. These patches can be itchy and uncomfortable and most commonly affect the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back, though they can appear anywhere on your body.

The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is linked to an overactive immune response that speeds up skin cell production. This causes cells to build up faster than they can shed, leading to the visible scaling. Genetics and certain triggers such as stress, infections or certain medications can also play a role.

Psoriasis can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. While it is more common in adults, it can also occur in children. You are more likely to develop it if you have a family history of the condition.

Managing psoriasis is key — there is no cure, but various treatments including creams, ointments, light therapy and medications can help control symptoms and improve quality of life. Triggers often play a role, so identify and avoid personal triggers such as stress, certain foods or harsh soaps. Do not hesitate to discuss it with your dermatologist, who can tailor a treatment plan to your needs.

Scabies typically presents as intense itching (especially at night), small red bumps on the wrists, fingers, elbows, armpits and genitals, and thin, light-coloured burrow lines in the skin that mark the mites' tunnels.

Scabies spreads primarily through direct, extended skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. Brief contact such as a handshake rarely transmits it. The mite can also be transferred via shared objects, but only survives 2–3 days outside human skin.

Anyone can get scabies regardless of age, gender or hygiene standard. It is more common in close living conditions, through sexual contact, in institutional settings (nursing homes, prisons) and in people with weakened immune systems.

Scabies is treated with topical scabicides (permethrin 5%) or oral medication (ivermectin) prescribed by a doctor. All close contacts must be treated simultaneously — even without symptoms. Clothing and bedding are washed at 50°C or above, and the home is thoroughly vacuumed.

The virus spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or via contaminated objects such as towels, washcloths, shared toys and playground equipment. Scratching or picking existing bumps can also spread the virus to other areas of the skin.

Molluscum contagiosum is most common in children between 1–10 years old, but it can affect people of any age. Individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible and may develop more or larger bumps.

Treatment may include cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen), topical medications (salicylic acid, cantharidin) or curettage (surgical removal with a sterile curette). Since bumps often resolve on their own, watchful waiting is also an option.

Avoid picking or scratching the bumps, wash your hands regularly, avoid sharing personal items such as towels, and clean shared toys and surfaces. Cover the bumps during close contact with others to reduce the risk of transmission.

Impetigo typically appears as red, irritated patches around the mouth and nose with small blisters that burst leaving honey-coloured or yellow crusts. In bullous impetigo the blisters are larger and most commonly seen on the trunk and arms.

Impetigo occurs when Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes enter the skin through cuts, scrapes, insect bites or cracks. The disease spreads via direct contact with an infected person or via contaminated objects such as towels and toys.

Impetigo most commonly affects children between 2 and 6 years, especially in close settings such as nurseries. Adults can also be affected, particularly people with eczema, dermatitis or a weakened immune system.

Impetigo is usually treated with topical antibiotic creams (e.g. fusidic acid or mupirocin) or oral antibiotics for more widespread infection. Good hygiene, keeping wounds clean and covered, and avoiding sharing towels are essential to prevent spread.

Cellulitis typically appears as a well-defined red, swollen and warm area on the skin — most commonly on the shin. The area feels painful and the skin may appear tight and shiny. With more serious infection, fever and chills may occur.

Cellulitis occurs when bacteria (typically streptococci or staphylococci) enter the skin through a break in the skin barrier — such as a cut, scrape, insect bite or crack. Chronic skin conditions, lymphoedema and diabetes significantly increase the risk.

Anyone can develop cellulitis, but children, older adults, people with diabetes and the immunocompromised are most vulnerable. People with chronic skin conditions such as eczema also have an elevated risk.

Cellulitis is treated with antibiotics — typically for 5–14 days. Mild to moderate cellulitis is treated with tablets, while severe cellulitis may require intravenous antibiotics in hospital. Rest, elevation of the affected area and good wound care are important parts of treatment.

Use the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry (A), Border irregularity (B), Colour variation (C), Diameter greater than 6 mm (D), and Evolving — any change in size, shape or colour over time (E). Contact a dermatologist if you observe one or more of these signs.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the primary cause. Other factors include fair skin tone, a family history of melanoma, the presence of many or atypical moles, and severe sunburns — especially in childhood.

Anyone can be affected, but higher-risk groups include people with fair skin and light eyes, those with a family history, people with many moles (>50), and those who had severe sunburns in childhood. Tanning beds also significantly increase the risk.

Surgical removal is the standard treatment, and for early-stage, thin melanoma the cure rate is above 90%. For advanced disease, immunotherapy (checkpoint inhibitors) and targeted therapy can significantly improve survival rates. Prevention — SPF 30+ sunscreen, avoiding tanning beds, monthly self-examination — is the best strategy.

BCC most often appears as a pearly or waxy bump with a smooth, translucent surface, or as a flat, pink or red patch with slightly raised edges. It may also resemble a small scar or have visible blood vessels within the growth.

The primary cause is chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, and when this damage accumulates over time, basal cells can begin to grow uncontrollably. Risk factors include fair skin tone, older age, immune suppression and a family history of skin cancer.

BCC most commonly affects people over 50 years old with fair skin and light eyes. Chronic sun exposure — especially during childhood — is the most important risk factor. Organ transplant recipients and people with HIV have a 10–100 times higher risk than the general population.

BCC is highly treatable: for small, early-stage, well-defined tumours the cure rate is over 95%. Surgical removal is the standard treatment; Mohs surgery (microscopically controlled surgery) is often used on the face to preserve as much healthy skin as possible. Prevention — year-round SPF 30+ sunscreen, avoiding tanning beds and regular skin self-examination — is the best strategy.

SCC typically appears as a red, scaly patch with a rough surface, a firm wart-like bump, a sore that does not heal, or a flat pink/red patch with a raised edge. It most commonly occurs on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, neck and hands.

The primary cause is chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. UV radiation damages the DNA in squamous cells over time, and they can begin to grow uncontrollably. Risk factors include fair skin tone, previous sunburns and a weakened immune system.

SCC most commonly affects people over 50 with fair skin. Men generally have a higher incidence than women. The immunocompromised, organ transplant recipients and people with actinic keratoses have a significantly elevated risk.

Surgical removal is the standard treatment, and for early-stage, localised SCC that has not spread the cure rate is over 95%. Mohs surgery is often used on the face. Prevention — year-round SPF 30+ sunscreen, avoiding tanning beds and monthly skin self-examination — is the best strategy.

Moles are typically small, round or oval spots on the skin. They can be flat or raised, and their colour ranges from pink to brown or black. Most moles are less than 6 millimetres in diameter.

Almost everyone has moles. Most people develop them during childhood and early adulthood. On average, an adult has between 10 and 40 moles.

Most moles are harmless, but it is important to watch them for changes that may indicate skin cancer, especially melanoma. Use the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry, Border (irregularity), Colour, Diameter (>6 mm) and Evolution (change).

A photo assessment can tell you whether a mole looks concerning enough to be seen in person, and how quickly. It cannot rule out skin cancer. A suspicious spot needs examination with a dermatoscope and, if there is any doubt, removal of the lesion for laboratory analysis.

AK typically appears as small, rough or scaly patches on the skin that may be pink, red or brown. They can feel like sandpaper to the touch and are often found on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, lips, bald scalp, neck and hands.

AK is most common in fair-skinned people over 40, but it can affect anyone with a history of significant sun exposure. People with weakened immune systems and those who have used tanning beds are at higher risk.

Early detection and treatment is crucial, as AK can progress to squamous cell carcinoma (skin cancer) if left untreated. Treatment options include topical medications, cryotherapy (freezing), photodynamic therapy and surgical removal.

Sun protection is the most important step. Use SPF 30+ sunscreen every day, year-round, on the face, ears, neck, hands and bald scalp, avoid tanning beds, and wear a hat and covering clothing in the middle of the day. If you have already had actinic keratosis, have your skin checked regularly, as new lesions are common.

Insect bites typically appear as small, red, swollen bumps on the skin. They can be itchy, painful, or both. Mosquito bites typically appear as small, round, itchy red bumps. Bedbug bites often appear in lines or clusters.

Anyone can be bitten or stung. Factors that increase the risk include time outdoors in woodland and grassland, living in or travelling to areas with large insect populations, and having unprotected skin in insect-prone environments.

Most bites and stings are harmless and settle on their own within a few days. Clean the affected area with soap and water, apply a cold compress to reduce the swelling, and use over-the-counter antihistamines for the itching. If a sting is left in the skin, scrape it out.

Call 112 for swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, dizziness or widespread hives — this can be anaphylaxis. If you have been prescribed an adrenaline auto-injector (for example EpiPen or Jext), use it immediately. Contact your doctor the same day if the redness spreads quickly, the area becomes hot and tender, or you develop a fever.

Haemangiomas typically appear as red or purple bumps on light skin and brownish on darker skin. They can be flat or raised and may resemble a mole. Common types include infantile haemangiomas (strawberry marks) and cherry haemangiomas.

Haemangiomas affect roughly 4–5% of infants. Only about a third are visible at birth — the rest appear during the first weeks of life. They are more common in girls, premature babies and those with low birth weight. Adults, especially those over 75, can develop cherry haemangiomas.

Haemangiomas are usually harmless and often resolve on their own, especially in infants. Regular review by a doctor is recommended to make sure they do not cause complications. Treatment options include topical or oral medication, laser therapy or surgical removal if necessary.

Have the child seen if the haemangioma is near the eye, nose, mouth, ear or nappy area, if it grows quickly in the first weeks of life, if there are more than five, or if the skin breaks down into an ulcer. Propranolol treatment works best when started early — typically within the first few months.

The exact cause of seborrhoeic keratosis is still unknown, and the condition is not contagious. It may run in families, suggesting a genetic factor. Exposure to sunlight and increasing age can raise the chances of developing these growths, as they are most common in middle-aged and older adults.

No, seborrhoeic keratosis is benign — it does not cause cancer and is not linked to skin cancer. However, some people worry because the growths can look similar to other skin conditions. If you are uncertain about a skin change, you should always have it assessed by a dermatologist.

Seborrhoeic keratosis does not typically require treatment unless it is causing discomfort or affecting your confidence. Common treatment options include cryotherapy (freezing), curettage (scraping) and laser therapy. These are performed by a doctor and are effective at removing the growths.

Avoid picking or scratching the growths — this can cause bleeding or increase the risk of infection. Use sun protection to prevent other sun-related skin problems. Moisturisers can help reduce dryness and mild irritation, although seborrhoeic keratosis is usually not painful.