Sunburn Care
A sunburn is the skin’s reaction to too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Prevent sunburns with sunscreen or sun-protective clothing, but if a sunburn does happen, there are things you can do to help it heal quicker.
Facial dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis)
Scalp dandruff is common and annoying. The same rash that causes dandruff can happen on the face too. Medicated dandruff shampoos really help, if you know how to use them. Learn more here.
Perioral dermatitis
Perioral dermatitis is red bumps and/or small pimples around the mouth and sometimes around the nose or eyes. Do not use topical steroids for this rash. Good over-the-counter treatments are available if you know how to use them.
Acanthosis nigricans
Acanthosis nigricans is thick, dark, velvety skin usually in the armpits, on the neck, in the groin area, and under the breasts. Because it is often noticeable and either annoying or embarrassing to those who have it. A combination of eating healthier, topical retinoids, and mild acids are often helpful.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a temporary darkening of the skin that has been inflamed or injured. It doesn’t itch or hurt, but most people with it do not like how it looks. It gets worse with sunlight. The sun is hard to avoid, but a combination of over-the-counter options + daily sun protection can really help.
Stasis dermatitis
Stasis dermatitis (a.k.a., venous eczema) is very common in older adults. It is dry, itchy skin on the shins, ankles, and tops of the feet. Our leg veins get tired, lose their strength, and get leaky. Leg swelling stretches and makes gaps in the skin causing eczema. Treatment includes compression, leg elevation, moisturizing, and topical medications.
Bruises
Bruises happen all the time. They happen when we have small bleeds under the skin but the skin doesn’t break, so the blood is trapped under the skin. They can be unsightly. Lots of things can make you easier to bruise - sun damage, age, chronic diseases, medicines, not enough Vitamin C or Vitamin K, etc. Learn how to deal with bruises with over-the-counter options.
Tinea versicolor
Tinea versicolor is very common. You may have seen it without knowing its name. The rash doesn’t itch, but it some people don’t like its appearance. Tinea versicolor (or pityriasis versicolor) is caused by a yeast we all have on our skin. Common in hot and humid areas. Clear it with a combination of dandruff shampoo and antifungal creams.