Best Hospital for Dermatology in India | Top Skin and Hair Care Hospitals - Apollo Hospitals

Types of skin diseases are the Conditions that may affect or damage your skin are known as Skin disorders. Rashes, inflammation, itching, and other skin changes can be brought on by these illnesses. Some types of skin diseases might be hereditary, others may be due to person’s lifestyle. There are different different types of skin diseases depends on the individuals. A medical professional can frequently identify a skin condition just by looking at your skin. If examining your skin doesn’t reveal any clear answers, your doctor may perform tests like these: o Performing a skin sample biopsy o Culture, or test to look for bacteria, fungus, or viruses o Test your skin with a patch, under a black light, or with a wood light to see how your pigment looks under an ultraviolet (UV) light. o Diascopy involves touching a microscope slide to a patch of skin to see if the skin’s colour changes. o Dermoscopy is the process of diagnosing skin lesions with a portable instrument called a dermatoscope. o Tzanck test, which involves testing blister fluid for the presence of herpes simplex or herpes zoster. Pills, lotions, ointments, or lifestyle modifications are the treatment options available for skin conditions. As a sensory and excretory organ, the skin also serves important roles in homeostasis, insulation, vitamin D secretion, boosting immunity, UV protection, and prevention from loss of body fluids. The layers of epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis, as well as other sublayers, make up the skin. A skin condition may start in one layer of the skin and spread to others, leaving noticeable scars or having significant metabolic implications. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the various skin illnesses is crucial for the best possible care and treatment. Types of skin diseases: 1. Acne 2. Atopic dermatitis (Eczema) 3. Shingles (Herpes zoster) 4. Psoriasis 5. Skin cancer 6. Athlete`s foot 7. Rosacea 8. Hives 9. Age or Liver Spots 10. Vitiligo Some of the rare skin disorders are: 1. Ichthyosis Ichthyosis is the types of skin diseases refers to a collection of around 20 skin disorders characterized by skin dryness and scaling. People who have this disorder lose the barrier that prevents moisture from escaping from their skin. Additionally, they produce skin cells too quickly or remove it too slowly. As a result, thick, scaly skin accumulates. Ichthyosis frequently has milder forms. Most of its forms are extremely rare. The following are the most common two kinds: – Ichthyosis vulgaris: About one in every 250 people are impacted by it. Brown, white or grey scales can be visible on body in early childhood. – X-linked recessive ichthyosis: Only men are impacted, with an incidence of 1 in 6,000. Chances of developing testicular cancer may increase. Women are more likely to be carriers and experience labor issues. Causes of Ichthyosis: Ichthyosis types of skin diseases that is inherited is a hereditary disorder. That indicates that you received it from your parents. The proteins that shield and maintain the moisture of your skin are impacted by ichthyosis gene alterations. They also have an impact on how rapidly your body regenerates or sheds skin cells. Early childhood is when ichthyosis typically manifests. You are more likely to have a serious disease if both of your parents carry the gene than if only one of them does. Acquired ichthyosis manifests at adulthood. People who experience it frequently also have other illnesses, such as an underactive thyroid gland, according to doctors who don’t know what causes it. Sarcoidosis, an uncommon condition that results in inflammatory spots inside the body, kidney disease, HIV infection, Hodgkin lymphoma, and other cancers A few medications may also cause the condition: o Cancer medications like vemurafenib, hydroxyurea (Droxia, Hydrea), and protease inhibitors (a class of medications used to treat HIV infections) (Zelboraf). o High cholesterol is treated with Nicotinic acid. Symptoms of Ichthyosis: The main symptoms are dry, scaly skin. Only a few bodily parts, including the scalp, face, buttocks, legs, and trunk, develop scales. The scales may be grey, dark brown, or white. They could be cracked by large or little fissures. In cold, dry weather, dryness and scaling become more severe. Warmer weather typically makes them better. Other ichthyosis symptoms include skin redness, blisters, peeling, itchiness, pain, and soreness. The soles of the feet and palms of the hands have lines, and the skin is tight and difficult to move in. Eczema is a red, itchy rash that affects many persons with ichthyosis. Treatment for Ichthyosis: Although there is no cure, treatments can help you manage your dry, scaly skin. Every day, apply cream, lotion, or ointment to your skin to increase moisture. Look for a cream that contains lanolin, alpha hydroxy acids, urea, or propylene glycol. Ceramides and cholesterol-containing products also help keep skin moisturized. While your skin is still damp after the shower or bath, apply the lotion right away. This will aid in retaining moisture. Additionally, you might try: – Take a saltwater bath. – Use a pumice stone to scrub your skin. – Use a product containing salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lactic acid to remove dead skin. Your doctor might suggest an oral retinoid medication like acitretin (Soriatane) or isotretinoin if the dryness and scaling are severe (Absorica, Claravis, Sotret, and others). Side effects from retinoids can include weakening bones, dry mouth, and upset stomach. 2. Harlequin Ichthyosis Genetic mutation is the reason for this serious skin condition called Harlequin ichthyosis. The majority of the bodies of newborns with this syndrome are covered in extremely thick, rigid skin. Deep cracks separate the huge, diamond-shaped plates that the skin develops (fissures). This skin restricts arm and leg movements in addition to changing the appearance of the eyelids, nose, mouth, and ears. Babies with harlequin ichthyosis may experience breathing problems and respiratory failure as a result of restricted chest movement. Infants with the condition also have eating issues. Harlequin ichthyosis-related skin defects compromise this barrier, making it challenging for affected newborns to balance water loss, maintain a stable body temperature, and fight infections. In the first few weeks of life, infants with harlequin ichthyosis frequently undergo excessive fluid loss (dehydration) and acquire infections that can be fatal. After the neonatal stage, the thick skin plates are removed, and the skin becomes reddened and covered in scales. Causes of Harlequin Ichthyosis Genetic susceptibility to harlequin ichthyosis is inherited via autosomal recessive genes. You can carry the disease without actually having it. There is a 25% probability that a child will have the illness if both parents are carriers. The National Organization of Rare Disorders estimates that 1 in 500,000 people have harlequin ichthyosis. Symptoms of Harlequin Ichthyosis Harlequin ichthyosis signs and symptoms vary with age and are typically more severe in young children. Premature birth is frequently the case for infants with Harlequin ichthyosis. Hard, substantial scales covering the entire body, including the face, are typically the first symptom people notice. The scales split open and crack when the skin is tugged tightly. – Eyelids turning inside out – Eyes not closing – Lips pulled tight, leaving the mouth open and making nursing challenging – Ears are fused to the head, small hands and feet that are swollen, limited mobility in extremities – Difficulties in nursing, problems pertaining to breathing due to tight chest skin – Infections in deep skin cracks – Dehydration, low body temperature, and high sodium levels in the blood, known as hypernatremia, are just a few of the serious problems that this hardened skin can result in. Physical development in children with Harlequin ichthyosis may be delayed. However, they often develop intellectually in line with normal kids their age. The skin of a newborn with Harlequin ichthyosis is likely to remain red and scaly throughout life. They may also have strange facial characteristics due to stretched skin, decreased hearing from scale building in the ears, difficulty moving their fingers due to tight skin, thick fingernails, recurrent skin infections, and overheating due to scales that prevent perspiration. Treatment for Harlequin Ichthyosis Improved neonatal facilities have increased chances for infants to live healthier and longer lives. However, prompt, thorough treatment is essential. Both dehydration and malnutrition can be avoided with tube feeding. Protection and special lubrication can assist maintain the health of the eyes. Additional possible initial treatments. – Using retinoids to help shed hard – Scaly skin, topical antibiotics to prevent infection – Bandaging the skin to prevent infection – To aid breathing a tube is inserted into the airway – Using lubricating eye drops or protective devices on the eyes – Bandaging the skin to prevent infection After initial treatment, care (management) becomes a critical component of the equation because there is no cure for Harlequin ichthyosis. And the skin is the key. Apply creams and moisturizers as soon as possible after a shower or bath to get the most benefit. Choose products with high levels of hydrating ingredients such as o Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) o Lanolin o Cholesterol o Petrolatum o Ceramides The AHA lactic acid-containing supplement AmLactin is suggested by several ichthyosis experts. Others advise incorporating a few ounces of glycerin into any lotion to extend the time that the skin remains moisturized. Skin thickness is helped by oral retinoids. Additionally, you should strive to avoid excessive temperatures that can irritate your skin and protect your skin from sunburn. 3. Scalded Skin syndrome The skin infection staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) types of skin diseases is brought on by the bacterium staphylococcus aureus. The outer layers of skin blister and peel as though they have been drenched in hot liquid due to the exfoliative toxin produced by this bacterium. Ritter’s illness, also known as SSSS, is an uncommon condition that affects up to 56 persons per 100,000. Children under 6 are most likely to develop it. Causes of Scalded Skin syndrome In healthy individuals, the bacteria that causes SSSS is widespread. According to the British Association of Dermatologists, 40% of adults have it without experiencing any symptoms (typically on their skin or mucous membranes). When bacteria enter the body through a skin crevice, problems occur. The bacterium’s poison weakens the skin’s ability to stay together. The distinctive peeling of SSSS is then brought on by the separation of the surface layer of skin from the deeper layers. A reaction might occur all over the skin when the poison enters the bloodstream. Young children, especially newborns, are most vulnerable because they lack developed immune systems and kidneys that can remove toxins from the body. 98 percent of cases, according to study in the Annals of Internal Medicine journal, involve children under the age of six. Adults with compromised renal function or impaired immune systems are also vulnerable. Symptoms of Scalded Skin syndrome The classic indicators of an infection such as – Fever – Weariness – Chills – Irritability – Loss of appetite – Weakness – Conjunctivitis, usually appear first (an inflammation or infection of the clear lining that covers the white portion of the eyeball) Also possible is the emergence of a crusty sore. For babies and young children, the sore commonly occurs on the face, in the area around the umbilical cord stump, or in the diaper area. It can appear anywhere on an adult. You might also notice the following when the toxin is released: red, painful skin, blisters that are readily split and can break off in vast sheets, either localized to the area where the bacterium entered the skin or more widely distributed. Treatment for Scalded Skin syndrome Treatment frequently necessitates hospitalization. The greatest facilities to handle the issue are frequently burn units. – Painkillers – creams to cover raw, exposed skin – oral or intravenous antibiotics to eradicate the infection are the usual forms of treatment. Steroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are not utilised since they may harm the kidneys and immune system. Dehydration might become an issue when the blisters drain and ooze. You’ll be advised to hydrate well. Within 24 to 48 hours of the initiation of treatment, healing usually starts. It takes about five to seven days for a full recovery.

Overview: With advances in technology , high-tech experts are turning the impossible into possible in various fields and skincare is no exception. The field of skin care too is bringing new innovations, technology and skin treatments into the picture. Hi-tech skin care is getting better by the day. From virtual dermatology to new Botox procedures to instant modifications, the latest science in skin-tech can help change your appearance or keep you looking younger for longer. Here is a sneak peek into what is new and promising in the future of skin care. The latest updates and advancements in skin technology Curiosity and continued quality research help to make headways in innovation. Likewise, the investigation into healthy skin has brought upon newer developments in skin medication and technology. Just like new discoveries from scientific studies, these innovations are often executed in laboratories. Here is the latest news on what is viable, useful and not-so-permanent in the future of human skin care. Cosmetic methodology for the dedicated but commitment-shyIf you are interested in giving that picture-perfect nose a try, but you are skeptical about going under the knife for a permanent change, you need not fret. One of the best and most standout plastic surgery developments have been the ‘nonsurgical rhinoplasty’. It makes the use of temporary fillers to reshape the nose and bring about astounding results. It comes with a risk of visual deficiency and damage. Everybody might not be an ideal candidate for this procedure. But it is temporary and provides instant results. However, this minimally intrusive technique should be solely done in the hands of qualified professionals. A new form of Botox with a shorter lasting effect :In case you have always kept your distance from ‘Botox’ in fear of an expression-less face, here is a better choice for you. This new type of Botox is a new alternative having a shorter span of effectiveness and quicker outcomes. This is a different serotype of botulinum which functions quite similar to a traditional Botox. It has an action that onset within 24 hours but with much shorter action duration of two to four weeks. Plastic surgery specialists are considering this to be perfect for first-time Botox users. This temporary treatment is apt for all those who are seeking a last minute treatment prior to a big event or even those who are not that keen to wait for three months. Traditional Botox needs at least three to five days to start working as opposed to 24-hour time span of this newer alternative. Skin-tech imaging software:Virtual imaging is doing a lot as far as skin technology is concerned. Digital imagery is highly manipulative, powerful and accessible today – starting from medical 3D modeling to photo-editing applications. You could just tap on your phone screen and see what your nose would look like after a procedure. This software provides the cosmetic surgeons more sophisticated tools during their planning stage and eventually the facial reconstructive surgeries. So, rather than taking a photo of a famous celebrity’s lips or nose to your surgeon, you can use your own tweaked photos for proper consultation. These edited images are a micro-optimized version of your own face and that makes the job easier. Sophistication and accuracy:With these newer technological features and ‘micro’ efforts, both patients and doctors are gaining the much-needed sophistication and refinement. The procedures of cosmetic surgery are becoming much more natural. For example, now a lip augmentation is a lot more than plumping of lips. There is a new procedure known as the ‘lip lift’ which shortens the separation between your nose and upper lip. This lifts up your lips and gives a better shape to the Cupid’s bow. And as one ages, this area actually protracts, thus not ending up looking unnatural or cosmetic. Safer, quicker and more successful treatments:Though it is not newly introduced, microneedling is rapidly becoming a standard procedure for skin evolution. It is considered to be one of the best skin tightening treatments. It has extended at-home alternatives, lesser drawbacks and more advanced tech choices for the dermatologists. Treatments combining microneedling and radiofrequency have been released in the recent year. Microneedling rollers which can be used at home are effective in reducing skin texture, pigmentation and scarring. However, dermatologists also suggest that any procedure which involves puncturing the skin should be done at a specialist’s office in a sterilized condition. New at-home options without the risk of sepsis:There are plenty of new at-home options that you can try out without having to be apprehensive about clinics and operation theatres. You could use at-home LED products which help to address acne and redness. You can even get chemical acid peels with better potent formulations in chemists and drugstores. Conclusion: Newer studies and research lead to newer innovations which make the skin look more comforting and results natural looking. People are increasingly gravitating towards skin tech treatments due to their quicker and less-permanent nature. Along with dermatologists and plastic surgeons helping you to look just like how you want; the future of skin tech is moving towards you, bringing more control, lessor efforts and wonderful results with it.

Overview: There are quite a few things which cause our skin to change. Some factors can be influenced while there are certain things that we cannot do anything about. One of the latter ones is the natural ageing process of the skin. But, with the right resources, we can reduce the visibility of such changes on our skin. It is natural for your skin to lose some of its youthfulness with years. Your skin tends to lose its elasticity, become thinner and drier. But, you can combat or prevent the premature ageing of your skin. For that, it is important to know what are the exact changes brought to the skin by ageing. The skin changes that come with age: Being the most voluminous organ of our body, the skin suffers from both extrinsic as well as intrinsic ageing damage. Ageing of organs starts from the time when one is born. The skin is no exception. So, as we age, natural changes occur in our skin, which include the following : Skin turns rougher. Skin loses its elasticity. The loss of elastin (elastic tissue) makes the skin go slack and hang loosely. This causes jowls and double chins. The thinning of the epidermis makes the skin look more transparent. Skin turns more fragile caused by the flattening of the area which unites the epidermis and dermis. Skin gets easily bruised due to thinner walls of blood vessels. Skin develops lesions like benign tumors. Loss of fat below the skin of cheeks, chin, nose, eyes etc. leads to sunken eyes. Reduced production of natural oils makes the skin drier. Fine lines appear on the forehead, on the temple, upper cheeks, around eyes and mouth. Grooves form beneath the skin’s surface which go on to become wrinkles. Age spots and small growths known as skin tags are also common. Causes of skin ageing: Your skin is at the mercy of various forces as you age. These factors include sun, sleep, harsh weather, diet, heredity, as well as bad habits. There are also other factors like pollution or stress which contribute to the ageing of the skin. Some of the most common causes are: Sun: Exposure to sunlight is the sole biggest culprit in ageing your skin. This effect is known as photo-aging. The sun’s ultraviolet rays damage the elastin in the skin. The breakdown of such fibers makes the skin sag and lose its stretching capability. It can also lead to skin cancer in severe cases. Also Read About: Squamous Cell Carcinoma of The Skin Smoking: Smokers tend to have more wrinkles and earlier , when compared to non-smokers. This is because smoking can cause free radicals. These free radicals are overactive, unstable and damage cells, causing premature ageing. Facial movement: Your facial movement could give birth to fine lines and wrinkles on your face. If you are squinting too much, it causes wrinkles near your eyes as well as lines on the forehead. Gravity: As the skin continues to lose its elasticity, gravity causes the drooping of eyelids and eyebrows. Sleep: Sleep position also affects your skin. Sleep creases are caused due to the position of your head on the pillow while sleeping. These are commonly visible on the side of the forehead, near the temples, middle of the cheeks etc. Effective ways to slow down the skin ageing process: Skin ageing is a natural process and you cannot stop or prevent it no matter how hard you try. But you can definitely slow it down. If you are in your late twenties or early thirties, you need to start now. What you do for and against your skin today will decide its future tomorrow. The signs of skin ageing may be subtle for you today, but it is very important to start to address this problem. This is because sometimes a little goes a long way. So, let us see what you can do to keep your skin looking young for a long time. Wear sunscreen: Rain or shine, indoors or outdoors, you need to wear sunscreen every single day. It should be an unavoidable part of your daily routine. Make sure to choose a sunscreen which is broad-spectrum and has an SPF of 30 and higher. It needs to protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. So, be generous while applying your sunscreen. Do not forget the necks, legs and arms. Avoid tanning: Irrespective of whether it is indoors or outdoors, tanning is one of the biggest mistakes you can do to your skin. Too much ultraviolet radiation causes damage to elastin, collagen and results in skin discoloration. Do not smoke: Smoking spells bad news for every part of your body, including your skin. It leads to faster breakdown of collagen, constricts blood vessels and causes wrinkles and dull complexion. Drink less alcohol: Alcohol is evil for the skin. Drinking too much of it dehydrates your skin and dilates the blood vessels. It could also lead to a skin disorders like rosacea that causes redness with tiny pimples. Avoid the same facial expressions: During a facial expression, we contract the underlying muscles. If you repeatedly contract these muscles years after years, these lines tend to be permanent. Exercise enough: Exercising for the greater part of a week helps to improve the body’s circulatory system. It gives a boost to the immune system and lends the skin a more youthful look. Balanced diet: Eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables helps to keep our body and skin supple and sound. A well-balanced diet with less sugar and carbohydrate content helps to prevent premature skin ageing. Cleanse gently: It is very important to clean your skin using a gentle hand. Scrubbing it hard will irritate it and accelerate skin ageing. Wash it gently to get rid of the pollution, dirt, makeup and sweat. Moisturize daily: Using a moisturizer daily helps to keep your skin hydrated and lock in the moisture. This keeps your skin looking youthful. Conclusion: Following these measures will definitely help you to slow down the ageing process of your skin. Even people who have already started developing these signs could benefit by making the required lifestyle changes. And if you are someone who has a lot of sun damage, acne scars or dark spots, you can contact a dermatologist for the appropriate skin treatment.

Winter Skincare: 6 Tips you need to follow Winter weather can be harsh on the skin, and dry indoor air can make skin less than ideal. Use these winter skin care suggestions to keep your skin healthy, moisturised, and attractive throughout the season. Winter skin care requires a little bit more time and effort because the weather is so harsh on our delicate protective layer. Skin is exposed to the elements, including the sun’s reflection off snow and the wind’s chilly air. In colder climates, low humidity is typical, robbing skin of moisture every second of every day. Additionally, there is intense dry heat inside. It makes sense why our skin is frequently dry, flaky, and itchy. And once the skin begins to dry out, it can bleed and crack more easily. With the aid of these suggestions, you can avoid that uncomfortable, unsightly outcome and maintain the health and happiness of your skin all winter long. Give your skin plenty of moisture. In the winter, switch to an oil-based moisturiser; your skin will thank you. Consider applying a deep moisturiser to your skin overnight to help particularly dry areas like your lips, feet, elbows, and hands. To keep the moisture in overnight, cover with cotton gloves and socks. Use a different cleanser. Winter is a good time to switch out your shower gel for one that is more hydrating and moisturising, especially if your current product contains drying ingredients like glycolic or salicylic acid. After cleansing, tone and moisturise for 30 seconds to prevent further dehydration. Remember your sunscreen. Even though it may be cold outside, the sun still has an impact on your skin. UV rays are now striking you from more angles because of the sun’s reflection off of the snow. Keep yourself hydrated, especially in the winter. Your skin will be better hydrated if you drink more water. Hyaluronic acid During the winter, exposure to the chilly, harsh winds can result in dry skin. So for amazing results, always hydrate your skin and use hyaluronic acid. Retinol should be a part of your skincare regimen  Retinol works wonders to smooth and plump the skin. A strong SPF should always be used after it. It boosts cell renewal, controls oil production, and enhances pigmentation. The Bottom Line It’s crucial to schedule routine appointments with a dermatologist and gynaecologist if you want to maintain healthy skin during this cold season. This will ensure the health of your skin and aid in spotting any early-stage issues. Gynaecologists are trained in the care of women’s health, including reproductive health, while dermatologists are specialists in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of skin diseases.

Overview With winter, comes the unavoidable issue of dry skin and chapped lips. Dry skin has always been a difficult condition to combat during the colder months. But in certain cases, it is not necessarily constrained to that time frame. Dry skin could also be a form of eczema, which is a broader term for a group of medical issues which make the skin inflamed and irritated. Atopic Eczema is a very common medical condition that can happen to anyone. So, let us know more about this type of skin allergy and its close association with dry skin. What is Eczema? Eczema is generally meant to describe atopic dermatitis, which is its most common type. Atopic refers to a group of diseases which affect the immune system while dermatitis is the inflammation of the skin. This condition makes your skin look red and itchy. It is most common among children and could occur at an age. This medical condition is a chronic disease accompanied by periodical flare-ups. Though there has been no cure discovered for eczema yet, appropriate treatments and self-care measures can help to relieve the symptoms. Symptoms of Eczema Atopic dermatitis mostly starts before the age of five and may continue into adolescence and adulthood. The signs and symptoms of this disease could vary, depending on the age of the patient. People with such conditions have certain periods of flare-up followed by periods in which the symptoms improve. The symptoms depend upon the age and include: Symptoms under 2 years Rashes, most commonly on the scalp and cheeks. Rashes which could lead to extreme itchiness. Rashes bubble up and start leaking fluid. Continuous rubbing and scratching could lead to skin infections. Symptoms until puberty Rashes generally appear on the creases of elbows and knees. Rashes commonly appear on neck, wrists, ankles, and crease of buttocks and legs. Rashes would become lightened or darkened in colour. Rashes turn bumpy. Rashes thicken and develop into knots and cause permanent itching. This is known as lichenification. Symptoms in adults Rashes come up on elbow, knee creases and on nape of the neck. Prominent rashes on the neck, face and around eyes. Rashes can lead to extremely dry skin and permanent itchiness. Rashes appear on most portion of the body. Highly scaly rashes which lead to skin infections. Causes of Eczema Though the exact cause of eczema remains unknown, it is considered to be linked to certain risk factors or triggers. These include: The primary reason for atopic dermatitis is having a personal or family history of asthma, allergies, hay fever, or eczema. An overactive response of the body’s immune system towards irritants. It could also be due to a gene variation which affects your skin’s ability to protect you from bacteria, irritants, and allergens. In certain children, food allergies may cause eczema. Defects in skin barrier cause the germs and moisture to move in and out. Flare-ups could result due to response or contact with certain substances like soap, detergent, harsh chemicals, animal dander, coarse face washes etc. Respiratory infections and cold also act as triggers. Treatment for Eczema There is no sure-shot cure for eczema. Treatment of this medical condition helps to heal the affected skin and prevents the flaring up of symptoms considerably. For certain people, eczema goes away with time. While for others, it is a lifelong issue. Doctors will recommend a treatment plan for you, depending on your age, symptoms, and present state of health. Treatment includes: Home remedies: There are multiple things which eczema patients can do to improve their skin health. These include: Taking baths in lukewarm water. Applying moisturizer just after bathing to keep the moisture in the skin locked. Regular moisturizing and using mild soaps & cleansers. Donning soft fabrics like cotton and avoiding rough, scratchy fabrics. After bathing, the skin should be air dried or gently patted with a soft towel. Avoid getting exposed to rapid changes of temperature. Making the use of a humidifier in dry or cold weather. Keeping fingernails short and trimmed to prevent wounding the skin while scratching. Medications: There are several medicines which doctors prescribe for eczema. The commonly suggested ones are as follows: Anti-inflammatory medicines like topical corticosteroid creams and ointments which help to relive the skin inflammation and itchiness. Systemic corticosteroids are given by mouth or by injections if topical treatment does not work. Antibiotics are prescribed if eczema is accompanied by a bacterial skin infection. Antiviral and antifungal medicines are used to treat viral and fungal infections. Antihistamines cause drowsiness and prevent night-time scratching. Topical calcineurin inhibitors help to suppress the immune system and prevent flare-ups. Phototherapy – moderated exposure to ultraviolet waves – is used to treat dermatitis. Prevention of Eczema Eczema outbreaks can be avoided or the severity of symptoms may be lessened by the following measures: Regular moisturizing of skin, at least twice a day, using creams, lotions, ointments, petroleum jelly etc. Trying to identify and avoid culprits of flare-ups like sweat, obesity, harsh soaps, stress, dust, pollen, and even certain food like eggs, milk, soy, wheat etc. Taking shorter baths up to 15 minutes, and using warm or lukewarm water. Avoiding drastic changes in temperature or humidity. Using gentle soaps and avoiding harsh fabrics. Using a humidifier in the room while sleeping. Patting skin gently with a soft towel after bathing. Dry Skin or Eczema? If your dry skin is scaly and itchy, you might be worrying that it may be eczema. However, there is a lot of difference between general dry skin and chronic atopic dermatitis. These are the important things to keep in mind: In case of Eczema, the dry skin is accompanied by severe itchiness, and patches of redness or rashes. In case of Eczema, the skin goes through alternating periods of calm and upset. The latter periods are caused due to certain triggers like long, hot showers, lack of moisturizing or rough fabrics. If the dryness of your skin is not getting healed by over-the-counter lotions and creams, you might need to see a doctor. Conclusion: Now that you know what eczema actually is, you know what to expect when your skin starts to get all dried up in the winters. Make sure to closely notice the way your skin is behaving and consult a doctor as soon as eczema symptoms start to show up.

Peeling of the skin is usually quite common, especially on the hands, feet, lips, or fingertips. What is “Peeling Skin”? Peeling of the skin, also called ‘desquamation’, is the shedding of the topmost layer (epidermis) of your skin. It can happen in a small area or on the whole body. It affects all age groups with several causes attributed. Mostly, it goes away when we apply creams or lotions (over-the-counter products). But in some cases, it may require medical treatment depending on the cause of skin peeling. Thus, it is very important to identify the root cause. What are the symptoms of peeling skin? Based on the underlying disease or condition associated with skin peeling, various types of symptoms can be seen which not only affect one’s integumentary system (associated with skin and tissues) but also affects the nervous system, immune system, reproductive system, respiratory system, etc. Peeling of skin can be accompanied by symptoms like: InflammationRednessItchingBlistersDrynessBurningHeating up of the affected areaBleeding Sometimes, these escalate and lead to more symptoms such as: Lesions or blistersFeverShedding of excessive skinSkin pain with itchingSorenessNausea or DiarrheaBody pain; Joint pain; HeadacheFlu-like symptomsLethargySwelling If you are not able to find the cause of peeling skin but notice these symptoms, then contact your healthcare provider. Book An Appointment Causes for peeling skin General Causes Mostly depends on environmental causes.Weather- Very dry weather, especially during winters can cause your skin to crack and peel.Sunburn– Ultraviolet rays damage your skin and cause rash, soreness, and flaking of skin.Chemical Exposure– People who work in chemical manufacturing or the cleaning industry are exposed to chemicals daily. Unless wearing protective gear, their skin can get irritated or itchy and start flaking.Vitamin deficiency can also cause drying and flaking of skin.Facial creams or ointments having chemicals like retinol, benzoyl peroxide can cause skin peeling. Medical Conditions  A few disease conditions can also cause peeling of the skin. Eczema– Also called ‘Atopic dermatitis’ is characterized by reddening and itching of the skin at knuckles, ankles, knee caps, etc. It is a genetic disorder and can be treated.Contact Dermatitis– When in contact with an allergen or an irritant, the skin of the exposed area turns red and itchy with peeling of the skin.Exfoliative Keratolysis- A condition wherein the peeling mostly occurs in the summer season and affects young adults. The skin turns red, dry, and cracked with blisters but is not itchy. Usually aggravated with exposure to soaps, detergents, or cleaning agents.Psoriasis– It’s an autoimmune non-contagious disease causing red, dry, peeled inflamed patches on the skin. The person having psoriasis has flare-ups every few months when their condition worsens. These flare-ups are triggered by many factors including diet, humidity, stress, etc. Psoriasis can be brought in control with medication over years but does not have a cure yet.Infections- Infectious diseases like Scarlet fever, Tinea infections like athlete’s foot and Staphylococcal skin infections can also cause one’s skin to peel.Cancer treatment– Cancer treatment like chemotherapy might cause your skin to peel. Having skin cancer can also cause flaky skin which leads to peeling.Epidermal Necrolysis– It is a severe drug reaction that causes the degradation and peeling of the topmost layer of your skin. Also Read About: Squamous Cell Carcinoma of The Skin When to see a doctor Peeling of the skin can usually be treated at home with moisturizers and by avoiding exposure to an irritant. However, if there are any underlying medical conditions, a prompt diagnosis should be made. Your health care provider will help you find the cause for skin peeling and will be able to diagnose any allergies that you are unaware of. Your doctor will conduct different patch tests to find your allergies. You should contact your doctor if If the skin peeling lasts more than 2 weeksIf peeling of skin does not improve with moisturizersIf there is pain and itching along with the peeling of skinIf you have any signs of infection Book An Appointment How to prevent your skin from peeling Easy lifestyle changes which can prevent skin peeling include: Avoid extreme temperature water baths (Scalding hot or cold), instead, use warm to lukewarm water for bathing or for washing hands or feet.While using any cleaning product (during washing dishes or cleaning toilets), always wear gloves.Use moisturizers daily. Apply moisturizer after you have taken a bath, the moisturizer will form a protective layer on your skin.Use hand creams for dry skin after you have been in contact with water.Use sunscreen with higher SPF (SPF 30 and above) to protect your skin against UV rays. Complications To minimize any potential complications arising out of skin peeling, it is very important to determine the cause of skin peeling. Peeling of the skin itself can lead to a variety of complications that may worsen the condition. Fungal or bacterial infection at the skin peeling site leading to cellulitis.Lesions or sores which do not healPermanent change in skin texturePermanent skin discoloration at the skin peeling site. Although not uncommon, skin peeling can make you extremely uncomfortable as it mostly occurs on your fingertips, feet, or your hands. Take good care of your skin by moisturizing it regularly and avoiding irritants or chemicals.  Contact your health care provider for a physical exam if the peeling of the skin is unexplained and persistent. The goal of this clinical evaluation will be to find out the root cause underlying for peeling of the skin. If you or someone you are with is experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms, please seek prompt medical care. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Will skin peeling occur if been in contact with any new substances or environments or new medication? Yes. This can be a cause of skin peeling. If the skin peeling does persist or is painful and itchy, contact your healthcare provider and reveal the recent changes in your environment or lifestyle. Reveal if you are taking any new medication or dietary supplements. This can help the doctor to narrow down the things you are allergic to. Does the peeling of the skin involve mucous membranes in your nose, mouth, genitals, eyes, or anus? If it persists, seek immediate medical attention from your healthcare provider. Peeling involving mucous membranes can indicate a disease condition or a severe reaction. What to do if you have been sunburned or exposed to heat for a longer period? Longer exposure to the sun can cause the UV rays to damage your skin. Apply lotions or creams on the affected area to soothe the reddening and itching. Will the peeling be restricted to a specific area or onto the whole body? Peeling of skin on the whole body refers to an underlying disease condition. Peeling restricted to any specific part suggests contact with an irritant.