Guys' Common Skin Problems and How to Fix Them

If your skin is itchy, has a rash or is broken out, you might be suffering from one of several skin problems. Conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema and dermatitis can make you feel self-conscious--but there are treatments. Read on to learn about the five most common skin problems and ways to get relief.

Five Common Skin Problems

Doctors still don't fully understand the causes of some common skin problems, such as eczema and dermatographia. However, there are often triggers to be aware of. To avoid these triggers, you'll first need to determine which skin problems you have.

Here are five common skin conditions. If you suspect you're suffering from one of them, see a dermatologist for a diagnosis:

• Acne: This skin condition can be found on the face, chest and back. Acne can take the form of blackheads, whiteheads or cystic lesions.
• Dermatitis: This is the simple term for skin inflammation. Skin affected by dermatitis can look red and be itchy or may even have blisters.
• Eczema: This condition (typically found on the elbows and hands) leaves skin itchy, red and inflamed.
• Psoriasis: This condition usually affects the knees, elbows, lower back and scalp. Psoriasis shows up as a non-contagious rash in these areas.

• Rosacea: Skin becomes red on typically the nose, cheeks and forehead in those with the rosacea skin condition.

Treatments for Common Skin Problems

After a dermatologist diagnoses you with a skin condition, the doctor will be able to give you treatment options and advice on what triggers to avoid. Common triggers and treatments of skin conditions include:

• Acne: A doctor can provide antibiotics to treat acne. However, at home, you should use over-the-counter products with benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Wash your face with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser each day to reduce acne.
• Dermatitis: Plants or even everyday chemicals found in detergents can cause dermatitis. A dermatologist can help identify the cause of the dermatitis and offer tips to reduce symptoms. You may also want to inquire about using an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to relieve discomfort.
• Eczema: Your doctor may suggest over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or ultraviolet light therapy to relieve eczema symptoms.
• Psoriasis: Psoriasis treatment generally includes light therapy and medications.
• Rosacea: Patients looking for a rosacea treatment should first avoid triggers that cause the skin to flush, like alcohol and spicy foods. Rosacea care options include medications prescribed by a doctor.

Resources

Doc Shop Staff. (n.d.). Common skin flaws from A to Z. Retrieved March 18, 2010, from the Doc Shop Web site: http://www.docshop.com/education/dermatology/skin-flaws/.

Medicine Net Staff. (n.d.). Skin center A-Z list. Retrieved March 18, 2010, from the Medicine Net Web site: http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/alphaidx.asp?p=a_25.