A skin infection is an infection of the skin. Infection of the skin is distinguished from “dermatitis”, which is described as an inflammation of the skin. But in many cases, skin infection can result in skin inflammation. Skin inflammation due to skin infection is called infective dermatitis. Skin infection can be bacterial, fungal, and parasitic, or can be viral. There are many types of skin infections but acne, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, skin cancer and psoriasis are the most common skin infections that affect people.
The most common type of skin infections are:
Acne
Acne is a skin condition that usually occurs when hair follicles get plugged with oil and dead skin cells. This mainly appears on the face, neck, shoulders, chest and back and comes in many forms. Whiteheads and blackheads are the most common forms which most of us encounter mainly in our teenage. Whereas whiteheads and blackheads are common, nodular and cystic are more severe types as they form deep within the skin and can lead to scars.
Eczema
Eczema is a term mainly used for several types of skin swelling. Eczema is not contagious. It is also known as dermatitis. There are different types of eczema, where the most common type being atopic dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis is mostly seen in children, which causes itchy rashes on the elbow and behind the knees. Allergic contact dermatitis begins to show in adulthood and is caused by environmental factors such as cosmetic agents, fragrances, and metals. Nummular dermatitis looks like red and flaky coin-shaped patches of skin and occurs due to dry skin.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic Dermatitis is a common skin condition that mainly affects the scalp leading to scaly patches, red skin and stubborn dandruff. This type of skin condition can also affect other oily areas of the body such as the face, upper chest and back. It mainly occurs due to poor hygiene and health condition. Seborrheic dermatitis is not a dangerous skin condition but it causes uncomfortable conditions.
Skin cancer
Skin cancer is the cancer of the skin and is the most common form of cancer. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common types of skin cancer. They mostly occur on the head, face, hands and arms. Another type of skin cancer is melanoma which is the most dangerous but less common. About 75 percent of skin cancer deaths occur due to melanoma cancer. The main causes of skin cancer are due to skin damage due to extensive sun exposure, light color skin or genetic problem.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic genetic disease that causes itchy or sore patches of thick, red skin with silvery patches. It occurs due to the build-up of excess skin tissue. It first appears on the elbows and knees but can spread to other parts of the body such as the face, palms, and feet. Psoriasis is usually associated with arthritis problems too. This type of skin disease mainly occurs due to poor quality of life and sometimes due to problems with the immune system. This skin disease is hard to diagnose and can be a lifetime disease.
Although there is a number of skin problems, these above-mentioned are some common skin infections. And treatment for skin problems like acne, eczema and dermatitis are easily available and can be treated successfully. But even if you suspect to have any of such skin conditions, see your dermatologist to treat these skin infections immediately.
Stay Clean…Stay Healthy!!!!
