Solutions for Top Skin Conditions

• By Felissa Benjamin | Medically Reviewed By Sanjai Sinha, MD

Treatments for dry skin, rash, eczema, psoriasis and body acne

At some point, most people will face a skin problem such as dryness, rash, acne, psoriasis, or eczema. But having a skin ailment isn't a life sentence. Below are the five most common skin conditions and the best ways to prevent and treat each.

Dry Skin Treatment

It may sound obvious, but the most important part of treating dry skin is to moisturize correctly, and to use the most effective lotions and creams.
"You lose a lot of moisture just in the atmosphere," says Debra Jaliman, MD, a leading New York City dermatologist. "Plus, many people overwash and use harsh soaps when they should be using something that's fragrance free, or milder." It's important to make sure that your moisturizer can penetrate the skin, so exfoliate first. Dr. Jaliman suggests exfoliating mechanically, with a scrub or loofah, or chemically, with peels or foams.
In addition, it's important to limit bath and shower time to 10 minutes, says Doris Day, MD, director of Day Cosmetics and Laser and Comprehensive Dermatology. Use lukewarm rather than hot water, which decreases the skin's natural moisture, and opt for less-drying body washes over soap.

Skin Rash Treatment

A rash can often result if you don't take care of dry skin properly. When treating a rash, try not to scratch, which will only inflame it more. If you are prone to scratching in your sleep, take Benadryl before bed, says Jaliman. For a mild rash, an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream should help relieve itching, swelling, and redness. For a more severe rash, Jaliman suggests a topical cream, such as prescription-strength hydrocortisone or pimecrolimus (sold as Elidel), which stimulates the immune system.
Eczema Treatment
Unlike a rash, eczema affects only people with allergies or those with a family history of allergies or asthma. The first step in treating eczema is to see a dermatologist to get help in identifying your triggers so you can learn how to avoid eczema flare-ups. You can also lessen episodes by sticking with milder laundry and soap products, and by avoiding wool in favor of softer fibers such as cotton and bamboo. Robyn Gmyrek, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology and director of Cosmetic Dermatology at Columbia University Medical Center Eastside, suggests applying an over-the-counter hydrocortisone ointment (1 percent) twice daily to the affected areas for two weeks. If that doesn't work, a prescription-strength steroid can often bring eczema under control.
Psoriasis Treatment
Psoriasis treatment can be a real challenge because it's so persistent. For milder cases, Dr. Day suggests using a moisturizing cream that contains retinoids (vitamin A) or topical steroids. Psoriasis sufferers should also use an ointment with salicylic acid or another exfoliant to remove dead skin cells. For more severe cases, internal medications are effective. Jaliman also suggests eating foods high in omega-3 oils, such as salmon and tuna, and avoiding red meat.
Acne Treatment
Luckily, there are plenty of options for treating acne. "Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and antibacterial washes are all made for acne-prone skin," says Dr. Gmyrek, "But acne can take a good four to six weeks to clear up, and the biggest problem that I see is patients not using a product for a long enough time. Be consistent in your routine." One of the most common causes of acne in women is hormones, and Jaliman says birth control pills often help control breakouts. If you are prone to acne, avoid touching or leaning on your face, and make sure you change sweaty clothes immediately after a workout to prevent acne breakouts on your face and body.