Common skin conditions and disorders

Common skin conditions and disorders

Acne

• Acne is a common skin condition, particularly prevalent in teenagers, characterised by blackheads, whiteheads and inflamed spots.
• It occurs when the sebaceous glands attached to the hair follicles are stimulated by hormonal changes and produce excess oil.
• Factors influencing acne include genetics, diet, stress, hormonal changes and poor hygiene.

Eczema

• Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a group of conditions that cause inflammation of the skin, leading to redness, itching and sometimes blistering or peeling.
• It usually appears in early childhood, and often improves or clears up entirely with age.
• Eczema can be triggered by irritants, allergens, changes in temperature or humidity, and stress.

Psoriasis

• Psoriasis is a common skin disorder that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells, causing them to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin.
• The extra skin cells form scales and red patches that can be itchy and sometimes painful.
• Psoriasis can be triggered by infections, stress, and cold weather.

Rosacea

• Rosacea is a long-term skin condition characterised by redness, pimples, swelling, and dilated blood vessels, typically on the face.
• People with rosacea can also experience a burning or stinging sensation, and may develop small, red, pus-filled bumps.
• Triggers can include alcohol, spicy foods, emotional stress, or heat.

Vitiligo

• Vitiligo is a long-term skin condition characterised by patches of the skin losing their pigment.
• It occurs when the cells that produce melanin die or stop functioning.
• Triggers are not well understood but they can include sunburn or emotional distress.

Understanding these skin conditions can be important when analysing a client’s skin and providing appropriate treatments or recommendations.