How To Treat Skin Inflammation
You have probably had an issue with your skin, such as a rash, a blister, or itchiness. It is quite common to experience skin inflammation. Skin inflammation is an indication that your immune system is responding to an infection or some dysfunction.
What Is Skin Inflammation?
Also known as dermatitis, skin inflammation is a condition that signals that your body's immune system is fighting an infection. Your inflamed skin can be due to internal or external causes that make the skin irritated. Thus, an inflammation manifests through a rash or blister.
Skin inflammations are of two types:
- Acute skin inflammation: An inflammation that lasts less than six weeks.
- Chronic skin inflammation: An inflammation lasting more than six weeks. It can be indefinite at times in the form of regular flare-ups. Usually, it is associated with eczema and psoriasis.
What Are the Symptoms of Skin Inflammation?
The symptoms of skin inflammation vary depending on the type of inflammation. The common symptoms of skin inflammation include:
- Incessant itching
- Skin dryness
- Blisters filled with fluid
- Skin redness
- Rash that may be smooth or scaly
- Ulcers that are painful and may bleed
Causes of Skin Inflammation
Factors that causes skin inflammation during immune system response include:
Dysfunctional Immune System
A malfunction in your immune system may result in immune cells overreacting and mistakenly attacking healthy body cells. For instance, psoriasis can cause an overactive by your immune system. Thus, it may cause inflammatory skin conditions.
Infection
Often bacterial, viral, and fungal infections are the major causes of skin inflammation. Some of the common infections that cause skin inflammation include:
- Cellulitis
- Ringworm
Allergic Reaction
It is the hyper-reactive response of the immune system to an otherwise harmless foreign substance. So, it causes an allergic reaction that can manifest as skin inflammation in the form of a rash. Certain medications and foods can cause allergic reactions.
Other allergens that can cause allergic rashes are:
- Perfumes
- Dust
- Cosmetic products
Environmental Factors
Several environmental factors can trigger your immune system to change your skin's protective barrier properties. As a result, your skin loses the ability to retain moisture leading to dermatitis. Exposure to pollutants, some cosmetics, skin products, and soap are the common triggers.
Diagnosis of Skin Inflammation
Your dermatologist will look closely at your skin to diagnose skin inflammation. They will examine symptoms like skin rash, redness, dryness, and swelling. The dermatologist may carry out tests if you need to ascertain your condition. Such tests will distinguish the type of dermatitis.
How To Treat Skin Inflammation
Treatments are available to treat dermatitis depending on its cause. Avoid the triggers of your dermatitis, especially if allergies cause it. Some of the treatment options include:
Home Remedies
You can treat and relieve skin inflammation in the following ways:
- Cold compress/wet wrap to alleviate irritation
- Application of creams and ointments
- Take supplements such as vitamin D
Topical Treatments
They are applied directly to the skin to treat dermatitis. It would be best to use topical treatments under a doctor's prescription. The common ones are corticosteroids, hydrocortisone, and other antibacterial creams.
Oral Medication
It would help if you only took them under prescription. Examples include:
- Antihistamines for allergic reactions
- Oral antibiotics and antifungal tablets
You can also try MicrodermaMitts to leave your skin smooth and healthier. It does so much to rejuvenate your skin, making it look younger.
Final Thoughts
Regardless of the treatment you choose, it is essential to consult your dermatologist. They will help determine the most suitable treatment for your condition.