Types of Skin Irritation
Skin irritation can be caused by many different factors, and can cause the skin to become dry, to burn, to become itchy, chapped or red. Because some skin irritations can be dangerous, seeking the advice of a medical professional is always a good idea. Most skin irritations are easily treatable by a dermatologist or by using a few home remedies. Does this Spark an idea?
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Acne
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Acne is an inflammatory skin irritation that produces pustules, papules, cysts, whiteheads and blackheads on the skin. Accompanying these inflammations are areas of redness and peeling that occurs from over-scrubbing of the skin. Skin irritation caused by acne and abrasive scrubbing can be alleviated by using an oil-free moisturizer daily and using a lower concentration acne-fighting cream.
Allergic Reaction
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Certain substances can sometimes cause an allergic reaction on the skin, which can appear as itching, redness, swollen areas and peeling on the surface of the skin. Allergic reactions can be caused by skin-care products like lotions or creams used to treat fine lines or wrinkles, and it can also be caused by certain foods like tomatoes or eggs. Your doctor can recommend an allergy test to narrow down a potential allergen.
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Psoriasis
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Psoriasis is a stress-related inflammatory skin ailment that causes the skin to produce silvery scale-like lesions that can become red, itchy and painful. Psoriasis is typically triggered by stressful events and can become worse during periods of stress in life. There are topical treatments that can help psoriasis to go into remission; your doctor or dermatologist can prescribe these. Once in remission, the scaling and redness will subside.
Chicken Pox
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Chicken pox has been known to effect children but many people do not realize that chicken pox can also effect adults. Chicken pox causes the skin to become covered in red, blistery lesions. Chicken pox is incredibly itchy and can lead to scarring if the itching is not alleviated by applying anti-itching lotions, like Calamine. If chicken pox is severe or accompanied by a high fever, seek medical treatment and advice.
Reaction to a Poisonous Plant
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Poisonous plants can be found in woodlands and areas of dense vegetation, and can cause severe itching and irritation on the skin. The most common poisonous plants, like poison sumac, poison ivy and poison oak, can effect the skin upon contact, releasing chemicals onto the skin that burn and irritate it. Application of Calamine lotion and oatmeal is the standard treatment method.
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