Constant lip licking strips the natural barrier, causing a red, chapped ring around the lips that stings and burns—especially in cold weather. How it looks Red, dry, sometimes shiny or scaly skin around the lips in a “halo,” often crossing…
A scaly hand rash can be fungus (tinea manuum) or eczema. Getting it right matters because treatments differ. Tinea Manuum (Fungal Hand Infection) Clues it’s fungus: Usually one hand worse than the other (“two feet–one hand” pattern if athlete’s foot…
Dyshidrotic eczema causes sudden crops of very itchy, tiny, deep “tapioca” blisters on sides of fingers, palms, and soles. It flares with stress, sweat, nickel sensitivity, or seasonal changes. Signs and symptoms Intensely itchy, pinhead-sized blisters that can merge into…
Chilblains are small, itchy, painful red-purple patches on fingers or toes after exposure to cold, damp conditions. They’re due to abnormal small-vessel reactions—not frostbite—and usually resolve in 1–3 weeks. How it looks/feels Tender, itchy, or burning red-purple spots on toes,…
Hyperhidrosis is sweating beyond what’s needed for cooling—commonly palms, soles, underarms, and face. It’s not dangerous, but it can impact daily life. Treatments work best when stepped up methodically. Step 1: Optimize basics Antiperspirants (not just deodorant): Over-the-counter clinical strength…
“Maskne” is acne and irritation triggered by mask friction, heat, sweat, and trapped humidity. How it shows up Blackheads/whiteheads, red inflamed bumps where the mask sits (nose bridge, cheeks, jawline, chin). Irritated rash (contact dermatitis) or perioral dermatitis can also…
Scalp itch can come from flakes (dandruff) or inflamed hair follicles (folliculitis). Knowing the difference guides treatment. Dandruff (Seborrheic Dermatitis) What it looks like: White/yellow flakes with mild redness; greasy scale on scalp, eyebrows, sides of nose, ears. Feel: Itchy…
Friction plus sweat causes chafing and intertrigo in runners, cyclists, hikers, and gym-goers. Quick steps can prevent pain and speed recovery. Chafing (Friction Rash) Where: Inner thighs, underarms, nipples, under sports bras, waistband areas. Look/feel: Red, raw, burning or stinging…
Light patches on a child’s face or body can be worrying. Two common causes are pityriasis alba and vitiligo. Here’s how to tell them apart and what to do. Pityriasis Alba (PA) Who: School-age kids, often with dry skin or…
Cold, dry air strips moisture from skin, leading to flares of eczema and painful chapping. A few tweaks to routine make a big difference. Everyday winter routine Short, lukewarm showers (5–10 minutes). Avoid very hot water. Gentle, fragrance-free cleansers; skip…
