Skin Conditions

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common, chronic skin condition causing red, scaly and greasy patches on the scalp, face and other oily areas of the body. It is not contagious and poses no serious health risk.

Typical signs include scaly, red patches on the scalp (dandruff), eyebrows, sides of the nose and behind the ears. In infants, characteristic yellowish, greasy scales appear on the scalp (cradle cap).

Several factors contribute: overproduction of sebum creates an environment where the yeast Malassezia thrives and triggers inflammation. Genetics, hormonal factors and a weakened immune system also increase the risk.

Anyone can be affected. Infants under three months often develop cradle cap. Adults between 30–50 years are most commonly affected, particularly men. People with HIV/AIDS or weakened immune systems have a significantly higher risk.

Consistent treatment is key. Antifungal shampoos (ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione) are first-line for dandruff. Steroid or antifungal creams treat facial and body inflammation. Stress management and gentle skincare reduce flare-ups. There is no cure, but the condition can be kept under control.

Acne is a common skin condition affecting oil glands and hair follicles. It causes pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and sometimes deeper bumps depending on its severity. Acne is not contagious.

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.

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes persistent redness, visible blood vessels and sometimes bumps or pustules on the face. It is not contagious, but can be persistent and frustrating for those affected.

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 (hives) is a common skin condition causing raised, itchy red welts (wheals) that appear suddenly and can disappear within hours. It is not contagious and is caused by histamine release from mast cells in the skin.

Urticaria appears as raised, red welts with pale centres that can range from a few millimetres to several centimetres in size. The welts are intensely itchy, can appear anywhere on the body, and may merge into larger areas. An individual weal 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.

HSV is a common, lifelong viral infection that causes outbreaks of small, painful blisters on the skin and mucous membranes. HSV-1 typically causes oral herpes (cold sores), while HSV-2 is primarily associated with genital herpes. The virus remains dormant in the nervous system and can reactivate to cause future outbreaks.

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.

Shingles is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus that causes chickenpox. After recovering from chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in the nervous system and can reactivate years later, travelling along nerve pathways to the skin and causing a painful rash on one side of the body.

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 attention immediately — 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.

Ringworm is not a worm, but a fungal infection caused by dermatophytes — fungi that feed on keratin in skin, hair and nails. There are several types: tinea corporis (body), tinea cruris (groin/jock itch), tinea pedis (athlete's foot), tinea capitis (scalp) and tinea unguium (nails). It is contagious and can spread through direct contact, animals and contaminated objects.

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 jock itch. 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 is a non-contagious autoimmune skin condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys melanocytes — the pigment-producing cells in the skin. The result is smooth, white patches (depigmented areas) that can appear anywhere on the body. The condition is not caused by anything you have done wrong and does not pose a threat to your overall health.

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 50+ on depigmented areas as they burn easily. Seek a dermatologist early — the sooner treatment begins, the better the outlook.

Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition that occurs when the skin reacts to a substance it has touched. There are two main types: irritant contact dermatitis caused by direct damage to the skin barrier, and allergic contact dermatitis caused by an immune reaction to a specific allergen. The condition is not contagious.

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 is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition causing purple, flat-topped, itchy bumps on the skin. The exact cause is unknown, but it is thought to be an autoimmune reaction where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells.

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 is an autoimmune skin condition in which the immune system's T-cells mistakenly attack the hair follicles, leading to sudden hair loss in well-defined round or oval patches. The condition is not contagious.

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 is a chronic skin condition causing red, scaly patches on various areas of the body. It is not contagious.

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 the 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. The risk is elevated with 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. Discuss it with your dermatologist, who can tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs.

Scabies is a contagious skin infestation caused by the sarcoptes scabiei mite, which burrows into the outermost layer of the skin causing intense itching and irritation. It spreads through close skin-to-skin contact or in rare cases via shared objects such as bedding or towels.

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 at least 50°C, and the home is thoroughly vacuumed.

Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection caused by a poxvirus. It appears as small, pearly white bumps with a central dimple. The condition is most common in children but can affect anyone.

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 is a bacterial skin infection affecting the outermost layers of the skin. There are two main types: non-bullous impetigo with honey-crusted sores and bullous impetigo with larger fluid-filled blisters. Both types are contagious and can spread through direct contact.

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 is an acute bacterial infection of the deeper layers of the skin (dermis and subcutaneous tissue), causing redness, swelling, warmth and pain in the affected area. It requires prompt antibiotic treatment to prevent serious complications.

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.

Melanoma is a malignant tumour arising from melanocytes — the pigment-producing cells in the skin. It differs from other forms of skin cancer in its ability to spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.

Use the ABCDE method: 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 at early diagnosis with a cure rate 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.

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer. It develops from basal cells in the lower part of the epidermis and grows slowly. BCC rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but left untreated it can grow deep and damage surrounding tissue.

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 with a cure rate of over 95% when diagnosed early. 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 with SPF 30+ sunscreen year-round and regular skin self-examinations are the best strategy.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common form of skin cancer, developing from the squamous cells in the outermost layer of the skin. It grows slowly but can rarely spread to other parts of the body, especially in the immunocompromised.

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 with over 95% cure rate when diagnosed early. Mohs surgery is often used on the face. Prevention with SPF 30+ sunscreen year-round, avoiding tanning beds and monthly skin self-examination is the best strategy.