Skin sensitivity can mean different things for different people. Roughly 70% of people suffer from some variation of sensitive skin which is why determining the exact cause can sometimes be challenging. Sensitive skin happens when nerve endings in the upper layers of the skin become irritated because the skin’s natural barrier is weakened. These can be environmental factors, usage of products, over exfoliation or certain skin conditions. Symptoms of sensitive skin such as burning, itching, stinging, pain, dryness and rough skin are often associated with common skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. 

Inflammation of the skin is often labeled under the term dermatitis which is the broad description given for skin irritations or rashes that develop due to genetics, an overactive immune system, infections, allergies, substances and more. Understanding common skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and rosacea can be accomplished at your appointment with a board-certified dermatologist at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology. Our skincare specialists will analyze the location, appearance and symptoms of your skin to properly diagnose which condition you are experiencing and then apply the best course of treatment. 

Because these 3 skin conditions can present in certain ways on the skin with rashes, bumps, redness and itching, there are a few key differences in helping you determine which type of problem is disrupting the smoothness of your skin. Eczema and psoriasis are a bit more similar to each other than rosacea; both eczema and psoriasis affect children as well as adults while rosacea is more common in 30- to 50-year-olds with fair skin. Eczema and psoriasis both cause crusty or scaly rashes, skin thickening, swelling and itching. Rosacea characteristics include pus-filled bumps, pimple-like rashes and severe blushing or flushing of the skin, particularly on the face.
Eczema tends to run in families and is associated with people who have allergies or asthma. Skin becomes cracked, discolored, blistered, crusty or scaly and can ooze clear fluid. Eczema is typically located on the folds of the skin, cheeks, hands, arms and legs. Psoriasis of the skin usually presents as thick, red patches also called plaques that are topped by silvery-white scales. They are commonly found on the elbows, knees and scalp. Rosacea is commonly mistaken for acne as tiny blood vessels, pimples and pustules can crop up on the red areas of the face. Rosacea follows a pattern on the skin initially in the central part of the face and then spreading to the cheeks, forehead, chin and nose. Treatments for all conditions vary but range from topical antibiotics to steroids to laser treatment. To know which course of action is right for you, book your appointment by calling 602-867-7546 or visit WEBSITE.