Dermatitis, also known as skin inflammation or irritation, is a condition that causes discomfort and itchiness. Contact dermatitis, a specific type of dermatitis, occurs when the skin reacts to allergens or irritants, resulting in painful and/or itchy rashes.
Hives are bumps that can pop up on your skin when you’ve been exposed to something you’re allergic to or that bothers your body. Your own sweat, cold, sunlight or the light pressure of a purse strap can cause hives; this is called inducible hives. It only develops when something that causes hives for you touches the skin.
Most hives are very itchy; they can be as small as a pinhead or several inches across. They may appear alone or in a group, and some join together to form large patches called plaques. They’re usually harmless and temporary. A single hive can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours; most clear within 24 hours. If new hives continue to appear for six weeks or longer, you likely have a condition called chronic inducible hives.
Some people develop swelling deep in their skin or the moist tissue that lines the mouth/lip, eyelids or other areas. This is called angioedema and is usually harmless. Yet it can be life-threatening if it causes swelling in your mouth or throat, problems breathing or racing heart.
Folliculitis, a common skin condition, occurs when hair follicles become inflamed. The main culprits behind folliculitis are fungal and bacterial infections, although viruses, fungi, and ingrown hairs can also trigger it. Symptoms manifest as clusters of small red bumps or whitehead pimples around the affected follicles. These bumps may develop into pus-filled blisters that eventually crust over. In some cases, a large, swollen mass may form, accompanied by painful, itchy, or tender skin.
Medical professionals categorize folliculitis into two types: superficial and deep. Superficial folliculitis includes bacterial folliculitis, pseudomonas folliculitis, pseudofolliculitis barbae, and pityrosporum folliculitis. On the other hand, deep folliculitis encompasses sycosis barbae, gram-negative folliculitis, boils and carbuncles, and eosinophilic folliculitis. Treatment options for folliculitis range from minor surgical procedures and laser hair removal to medications like creams or pills. These medications aim to control infection, combat fungal infections, and reduce inflammation.
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