DIAGNOSIS
Your dermatologist will request some tests to diagnose your skin problem.These tests may include:
Patch testing: This test can help examine skin allergies. An adhesive patch will be placed on your back and left for a couple of hours to find out if there are any skin reactions.
Skin biopsy: This test can diagnose a benign skin disorder or skin cancer. Skin around the affected area will be removed and examined in the laboratory.
Culture: This test can identify the microorganisms (bacteria, fungus, or virus) that are causing the infection. Affected skin areas, hair, or nails are removed and cultured to discover viruses, bacteria or fungi.
TREATMENT
Treatments for different skin problems include the following:
- Antibiotics
- Antihistamines
- Laser therapy
- Medicated creams and ointments
- Targeted prescription medications
- Vitamin or steroid injections
Some skin problems may also appear without proper treatment, especially those which are temporary skin conditions. However, these skin problems may reoccur because of some triggers such as stress, allergies and illness.
You can frequently treat skin problems that are temporary and cosmetic with:
- Good hygiene practices
- Medicated makeup
- Over-the-counter skin care products
- Small lifestyle adjustments, such as making certain dietary changes