Although there may be over 2,000 recognised dermatological conditions, Cosmetic Business sat down with British Skin Foundation spokesperson Dr Sharon Wong to establish the top five skin health issues that you’re most likely to see.
1. Eczema
Eczema is characterised by dry, itchy, red skin; caused when the barrier function of the skin is impaired and thus made sensitive to irritants and allergens.
The condition effects an estimated 20 per cent of children, and 3 per cent of adults worldwide (MG217, 2017), and can be inherited or acquired through excessive contact with harsh chemicals like detergents.
2. Skin cancer
Skin cancer is globally recognised as one of the most common form of cancer, especially here in Australia. It occurs when unrepaired DNA damage to skin cells (usually caused by UV radiation) causes the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells.
Approximately, two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they are 70, with more than 750,000 people treated for one or more non-melanoma skin cancers in Australia each year (Cancer Council Australia, 2017). Non-melanoma skin cancer is more common in men, with almost double the incidence compared to women.
3. Acne
Acne is estimated to effect 9.4 per cent of the global population (British Association of Dermatologists, 2015) making it the eighth most prevalent disease worldwide. Furthermore, while acne is most frequently associated with teens, adult acne is also on the rise.
4. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is characterised by thick, scaly, inflamed plates of skin; typically on the elbows, knees and scalp. However, the condition can even effect the nails.
The notable thick scale of skin is due to an abnormally rapid turnover of cells in the uppermost layer of the skin. Normally cell renewal takes approximately 28 days, but in psoriasis this process takes only 3-4 days.
The reported prevalence of psoriasis in countries ranges from 0.009 per cent to 11.43 per cent. It is estimated that at least 100 million individuals are effected by the condition worldwide (World Health Organisation, 2016).
5. Rosacea
Rosacea, or acne rosacea, is a non-contagious skin inflammation that exclusively affects the face. The small surface blood vessels (capillaries) of the skin enlarge, giving the appearance of a permanent flush. The forehead, cheeks and chin may develop yellow-headed pimples. Unlike acne, rosacea does not scar.
Over time, permanent redness (erythema) may develop as the capillaries enlarge and pustules begin to form. In men, severe rosacea can cause the nose to become reddened and enlarged (rhinophyma).
There are approximately 45 million people worldwide who suffer from the skin disorder (Rosacea.org, 2017).