Common Skin Conditions and Their Treatments
While not a significant threat to one’s health, many skin conditions can still be debilitating to a patient’s self-confidence. Acne, acne scars, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea are among the most common skin conditions in this category. While they don’t have a cure, they are very treatable with various techniques.
Tested and Proven Treatments from Dr. Houck
With locations in Estero and Naples, Houck Dermatology is conveniently located to serve patients from Fort Myers and across Southwest Florida who have been forced to deal with these frustrating skin conditions. Led by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Gregory M. Houck, we offer a huge number of both medical and cosmetic dermatological treatments.
With the knowledge and experience necessary to accurately diagnose these conditions, our team can develop the best treatment plan for reducing your symptoms. Some of the most common skin concerns we see are listed below.
Acne
Patients with acne experience pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, or pus-filled lumps. Essentially, acne occurs when the bacteria within the skin becomes infected, causing inflammation. Hormonal changes frequently cause more extensive breakouts during puberty, but acne can happen at any age.
Chemical peels can be an excellent all-in-one procedure that helps with not only acne treatment but also pigmentation issues, sun damage, and fine lines. Alternatively, Dr. Houck might prescribe antibiotics or another topical solution.
Acne Scars
Acne scars form after an acne breakout as the body rushes to heal the skin by producing collagen, the protein necessary for skin regeneration. Prioritizing wound closure, the body can sometimes create too much or too little collagen, leaving either raised or depressed acne scars, respectively.
Morhpheus8 microneedling with radiofrequency is our most popular therapy for acne scars, although laser therapy and dermal fillers can also be highly effective.
Eczema
Eczema is when dry, red, and/or itchy patches occur on the skin. Some patients have a history of eczema in their family or may have an overactive immune system. For others, environmental triggers from certain irritating substances or allergies might be the cause.
Once we’ve determined the cause(s) and avoidance strategies, we’ll likely recommend topical creams for proper eczema management. These products help to reduce the appearance of the patches.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic genetic condition characterized by itchy, scaly patches that can flare up every so often and cause a lot of patient discomfort.
For psoriasis therapy, Dr. Houck usually recommends moisturizers or medication to reduce skin cell production. For inflammation, steroid ointments or creams might be the best option.
Rosacea
Rosacea causes hyperpigmentation issues in the form of red or flushed skin, often in noticeable areas like the nose and cheeks. Occasionally, small bumps with pus can also appear.
Treatments for rosacea can include:
- Medication
- Dermabrasion
- Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy
Diagnosis First
These common skin conditions have the bad habit of looking similar to the untrained eye, so the most important step for treatment is to speak with a qualified dermatologist like Dr. Houck. Contact Houck Dermatology today to schedule your initial consultation in Estero or Naples, Florida.