Understanding Common Skin Conditions and Their Causes

Understanding Common Skin Conditions and Their Causes

As a dermatologist in Pune with extensive training and experience, I am often asked about the most common skin conditions and what causes them. In this blog post, I will discuss some of the most prevalent skin conditions I see in my practice and provide some insight into what causes them.

1. Acne

Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages. It occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. While acne is often associated with puberty and hormonal changes, it can also be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, stress, and certain medications.

2. Eczema

Eczema, is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It is often caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as dry weather, irritants etc. Children with atopic dermatitis are more prevalent to suffer from eczema in later life.

3. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes patches of thick, scaly, and red skin to develop. It occurs when the immune system triggers the production of new skin cells at a faster rate than normal, leading to the buildup of skin cells and the formation of patches. While the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, it is believed to be related to genetic and environmental factors.It is a lifestyle disease and requires long term management.

4. Hair fall

Hair fall can happen due to multiple internal and external reasons. If it is a patterned hair fall is mostly to due to hormones (eg: male pattern baldness and female pattern baldness), telogen effluvium is a generalised hair fall due to mutational deficiencies, chronic health issues, acute illness, stress, environmental factors and etc. Certain autoimmune conditions also need to hair fall. A detailed evaluation is required for identifying the cause and further treating it.

5. Fungal infection

It's a common condition on skin typically involving folds. Its characterized by raised, red, itchy, circular lesions. They are contagious. Can affect skin, hair and nails. One typically makes a gross mistake by selfmedicating with OTC medications. But worsens the entire situation hence one should seek dermatological advise.

6. Warts

Warts are infectious growths on the skin that are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the hands and feet. While can transmit from one person to another, hence they must be removed.

7. Hives/ Urticaria

Hives, also known as urticaria, are raised, itchy bumps on the skin that can appear suddenly and disappear quickly. They are often caused by an allergic reaction to food, medication, or an insect bite, but can also be triggered by stress, heat, or cold. They typically go in some time bit recurrences can be discomforting.

In conclusion, understanding the causes of common skin conditions is essential to proper diagnosis and treatment. As a dermatologist, I see patients with a wide range of skin conditions every day and am committed to helping each of them achieve healthy, beautiful skin. If you are experiencing any skin problems or concerns, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. With the right care and attention, you can enjoy healthy, radiant skin for years to come.