Types of Skin Diseases and Their Treatments
Know about the skin, diseases, symptoms, causes and treatments. Learn about how to maintain healthy skin.
Written by Dr. J T Hema Pratima
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 11th Aug, 2025
Introduction
Our skin is the largest organ of the body, acting as a protective barrier against infections, injuries, and environmental factors. However, it is also prone to various diseases that can cause discomfort, pain, or even serious health issues if left untreated. Understanding common skin conditions, their symptoms, causes, and treatments can help you take better care of your skin and seek timely medical help when needed.
Consult a top dermatologist for the best advice
Common Types of Skin Diseases
Skin diseases can range from mild irritations to chronic conditions requiring long-term care. Below are some of the most common skin disorders:
1. Acne
Symptoms: Pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, oily skin, redness, and sometimes painful cysts.
Causes: Excess oil production, clogged pores, bacteria, hormonal changes, and stress.
Treatment:
- Over-the-counter creams with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
- Prescription medications (antibiotics, retinoids).
- Lifestyle changes like a balanced diet, proper hydration, and gentle skincare.
2. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Symptoms: Dry, itchy, red, and inflamed skin, sometimes with oozing or crusting.
Causes: Genetic factors, allergies, irritants (soaps, detergents), and environmental triggers.
Treatment:
- Moisturising creams and ointments.
- Steroid creams for inflammation.
- Avoiding triggers like harsh soaps and allergens.
3. Psoriasis
Symptoms: Thick, red patches with silvery scales, itching, and sometimes joint pain (psoriatic arthritis).
Causes: Autoimmune disorder causing rapid skin cell growth.
Treatment:
- Topical treatments (steroids, vitamin D creams).
- Light therapy (phototherapy).
- Oral or injectable medications for severe cases.
4. Rosacea
Symptoms: Facial redness, visible blood vessels, acne-like bumps, and sometimes eye irritation.
Causes: Unknown, but triggers include spicy foods, alcohol, sunlight, and stress.
Treatment:
- Topical or oral antibiotics.
- Laser therapy for visible blood vessels.
- Avoiding triggers and using gentle skincare.
5. Fungal Infections (Ringworm, Athlete’s Foot, Yeast Infections)
Symptoms: Itchy, red, scaly patches, sometimes with blisters or peeling skin.
Causes: Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments.
Treatment:
- Antifungal creams, powders, or oral medications.
- Keeping skin dry and clean.
6. Vitiligo
Symptoms: White patches on the skin due to loss of pigment.
Causes: Autoimmune destruction of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells).
Treatment:
- Topical steroids or light therapy.
- Cosmetic cover-ups or skin grafting in severe cases.
7. Warts
Symptoms: Small, rough growths caused by HPV (human papillomavirus).
Causes: Viral infection, often spread through skin contact.
Treatment:
- Over-the-counter salicylic acid treatments.
- Cryotherapy (freezing) or laser removal by a dermatologist.
8. Hives (Urticaria)
Symptoms: Red, itchy welts that appear suddenly.
Causes: Allergic reactions to food, medications, or insect bites.
Treatment:
- Antihistamines to reduce itching and swelling.
- Avoiding known triggers.
9. Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
Symptoms: Painful, blistering rash, usually on one side of the body.
Causes: Reactivation of the chickenpox virus (varicella-zoster).
Treatment:
- Antiviral medications (if taken early).
- Pain relievers and calamine lotion for discomfort.
10. Skin Cancer (Melanoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma)
Symptoms: Unusual moles, sores that don’t heal, or changes in skin texture.
Causes: UV radiation exposure, genetics, and weakened immunity.
Treatment:
- Surgical removal, radiation, or chemotherapy.
- Early detection is crucial—regular skin checks are important.
How to Maintain Healthy Skin
While some skin conditions are genetic or unavoidable, many can be managed or prevented with good skincare habits:
- Cleanse gently – Use mild soaps and avoid harsh scrubbing.
- Moisturise daily – Helps prevent dryness and irritation.
- Protect from the sun – Use sunscreen (SPF 30+) and wear protective clothing.
- Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of water for skin elasticity.
- Eat a balanced diet – Include vitamins A, C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol – These can worsen skin conditions.
- Manage stress – Stress can trigger flare-ups in conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience any of the following, consult a dermatologist:
- Persistent rashes or itching.
- Sudden changes in moles or skin growths.
- Painful blisters or sores.
- Skin infections that don’t improve with home care.
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve your quality of life.
Final Thoughts
Skin is the largest organ of the body and is a first-line barrier for protection. However, it is prone to various diseases like warts, vitiligo, rosacea, eczema and acne etc. These skin diseases can be treated by using moisturising creams, antibiotic medicines and steroids, etc. It can also be altered by adopting lifestyle changes. In case you need special advice, you may have to consult a dermatologist.
Consult a top dermatologist for the best advice
Consult a top dermatologist for the best advice
Dr. S Madhuri
Dermatologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD. DVL, DNB, Fellow (Dermatosurgery & Lasers)
Secunderabad
Apollo Hospitals Secunderabad, Secunderabad
(375+ Patients)
Dr. Bhavya Swarnkar
Dermatologist
14 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy) Former Senior Resident, Department of Dermatology- AIIMS, New Delhi. Associate Consultant - Dermatology.
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(225+ Patients)
Dr. Syeda Sarwath Saniya
Dermatologist
5 Years • MBBS,DVD
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Somshukla Ray
Dermatologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology,Venerology & Leprosy), DNB (Dermatology,Venerology & Leprosy)
Kolkata
MCR SUPER SPECIALITY POLY CLINIC & PATHOLOGY, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Sonal Jain
Dermatologist
9 Years • MBBS, MD Dermatology, Venerology & Leprosy
Kolkata
MCR SUPER SPECIALITY POLY CLINIC & PATHOLOGY, Kolkata
Consult a top dermatologist for the best advice
Dr. S Madhuri
Dermatologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD. DVL, DNB, Fellow (Dermatosurgery & Lasers)
Secunderabad
Apollo Hospitals Secunderabad, Secunderabad
(375+ Patients)
Dr. Bhavya Swarnkar
Dermatologist
14 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy) Former Senior Resident, Department of Dermatology- AIIMS, New Delhi. Associate Consultant - Dermatology.
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(225+ Patients)
Dr. Syeda Sarwath Saniya
Dermatologist
5 Years • MBBS,DVD
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Somshukla Ray
Dermatologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology,Venerology & Leprosy), DNB (Dermatology,Venerology & Leprosy)
Kolkata
MCR SUPER SPECIALITY POLY CLINIC & PATHOLOGY, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Sonal Jain
Dermatologist
9 Years • MBBS, MD Dermatology, Venerology & Leprosy
Kolkata
MCR SUPER SPECIALITY POLY CLINIC & PATHOLOGY, Kolkata
