Skin disorders include a variety of conditions that are both temporary and without a cure. A temporary skin disorder, such as contact dermatitis, can be irritating but easily resolved. It can be brought on by substances such as soap, cosmetics or jewelry that aggravate the skin, resulting in a bothersome rash. Other conditions are permanent and have a host of symptoms that can be difficult to manage, such as psoriasis, vitiligo and rosacea. Treatments do exist for these more severe skin disorders, but they may be only slightly helpful in some cases.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a common noncontagious skin disorder that is said to affect approximately 7 million individuals in the United States. The disorder is characterized by inflammation and scaling of the skin that appears on the scalp, face, hands, back, legs and feet. Because of the physical symptoms that occur with the disorder, depression is often a result. In addition, increased anxiety and stress levels can be experienced. When stress levels increase, the condition can worsen--creating a vicious cycle of cause and effect. However, the mental difficulties that accompany this disorder can be addressed with medical help and support. The National Psoriasis Foundation has many resources available for those searching for education and treatment information.
Vitiligo
Vitiligo is said to affect an estimated 1 percent of the world's population. Vitiligo is a chronic skin disorder that is characterized by a loss of pigment, making the skin appear lighter in some areas. The condition is not contagious and is thought to be genetic.
Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition. The symptoms include redness on the face and small puss-filled bumps that can appear like acne or be mistaken for allergies. If the condition is left untreated, it is likely to be progressive. There are no cures for rosacea; however, treatments can keep the symptoms under control.
Dermatitis/Eczema
Dermatitis is an umbrella term used to describe an inflammation of the skin. Seborrheic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis (also called eczema) are common forms of the condition. The symptoms of dermatitis usually include swollen, red and itchy skin. Dermatitis is a common condition and is neither life-threatening nor contagious.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is described as the abnormal growth of skin cells. Often this occurs on skin exposed to the sun, but it can appear any place on the body. Three major types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Most skin cancers are preventable by limiting UV exposure, and they can be treated successfully with early detection. Symptoms of these conditions include bumps, spots or lesions on the skin.
Treatments
For contact dermatitis and other temporary skin conditions, an over-the-counter cream can be beneficial. And though there are no cures for skin disorders such as psoriasis and vitiligo, a variety of treatments exist. Topical creams, ointments, light therapy and even steroids can help to improve these conditions. With psoriasis, periods of remission may give the sufferer relief from the disorder, as symptoms appear to either calm down or disappear for a time.
