There are many different types of skin problems that affect both adults and children. These problems may be caused by heredity, overexposure to the sun, aging, allergic reactions, illnesses, and hormonal changes. Treatments to correct skin problems vary because not all skin problems have similar causes and respond the same to treatments. Acne is a very common skin problem, especially among teenagers, due to hormonal changes that occur during adolescence. Adults can also develop acne but may require different kinds of treatments than teenagers. Treatments include topical creams and ointments, often containing benzoil peroxide or salicylic (sal-ih-SILL-ic) acid, and oral medications. Other types of skin problems include warts, sunburn, wrinkles, boils, psoriasis (so-RYE-ih-sis), eczema, allergic red patches and itching, and various types of skin cancer. Each problem is unique and requires individual diagnosis. Treatments for these types of skin problems may include topical treatments, oral medications, surgery, or even radiation or chemotherapy for certain kinds of skin cancer. If you have persisting skin problems, consult a medical specialist to obtain correct diagnosis and treatment.
