There are many skin conditions that can be safely treated at home. There are also a large number of benign skin problems that can be bothersome or unattractive, but do not necessarily require immediate treatment. In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19), many patients are putting off unnecessary treatments. However, there are certain skin conditions that really need early detection and treatment. Knowing the warning signs of more serious skin health problems can save you a lot of time and discomfort in the future.

Cancer of the skin

Skin cancer is one of the most serious conditions that dermatologists encounter, and while most forms progress slowly, the fact is that the sooner treatment is started, the better the patient's prognosis. In order to detect skin cancer in its early stages, dermatologists really need the help of their patients. By performing regular skin self-exams and visiting the practice every year for an annual exam, patients play an important role in preventing skin cancer and planning effective treatment. To perform a complete self-examination for skin cancer, you should carefully examine your body from head to toe noting any changes in the colour and texture of your skin. In particular, you should watch for any moles (moles) or spots and notice the following :

• Asymmetry - spots are irregularly shaped or differ on one side
• Contour - irregular or indistinct edges around a point
• Color - the color is not consistent throughout or the coloring is different from other parts of your body
• Diameter - spots of any size can be cancerous, but anything larger than a pencil eraser should be examined by a dermatologist immediately
• Evolution - points that change quickly

There are many different types of skin cancer and they all have their own warning signs. The three most common are: → Basal cell carcinoma - Although rarely life-threatening, basal cell carcinomas can cause permanent damage to the skin if left untreated. These cancerous lesions vary in appearance. They usually look like small moles that are close to the natural tone of the flesh and can bleed easily. → Acanthocytic carcinoma - Growing in the outer layers of the skin, squamous cell carcinoma must be treated quickly to prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body. These cancerous spots are usually firm and raised from the skin and can grow in any part of the body that is repeatedly exposed to sunlight, as well as inside the mouth and genitals. → Melanoma - Almost 80% of skin cancer-related deaths are caused by melanoma. People who develop melanoma often notice sores that do not heal, areas of hyperpigmentation that spread from a mole or spots that grow or change rapidly.

Cysts & Abscesses

Many patients believe that cysts and skin abscesses are aesthetically unattractive but otherwise harmless. Some patients watch videos of cysts and pimples online and mistakenly believe that it is safe to attempt to "pop" these bumps on their own. Regardless of what you see online, cysts and abscesses are serious skin and whole body health concerns and should be treated by a dermatologist.

Chronic Exacerbations of Skin Condition

Many common skin conditions are caused by stress and at the moment, stress levels in the general population are extremely high. Not surprisingly, patients with managed chronic skin conditions suddenly relapse. Don't suffer unnecessarily and don't wait until things get bad. If your chronic skin condition worsens, call your dermatologist. In many cases, some small adjustments can be made to your treatment plan that can make a big impact. Some common skin conditions that may require immediate treatment during an uncontrolled flare-up include:

• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Rosacea acne

Acne - especially cystic acne-

Anyone who has acne will tell you that stress is a common denominator for some of the worst breakouts. Even patients who manage their acne very well often experience severe breakouts under stress. While these painful, unsightly breakouts can be annoying, outbreaks of more severe forms of acne, such as cystic acne, can greatly affect your skin health as well as your overall well-being. The appearance and symptoms of acne vary from person to person, but if you notice any of the following types of "pimples" suddenly appearing more than usual, it may be time to consult your dermatologist:

• Black spots - open clogged pores
• Whiteheads - closed clogged pores
• Papules - small red bumps
• Pustules - papules that have pus on their edges
• Cysts - painful, pus-filled lumps
• Nodules - hard, painful lumps

Allergic reactions

People are much more likely to have allergic skin reactions during the summer months, when plants, sunlight and other common causes of skin allergies are more prevalent. Most skin allergies are minor, such as mosquito and ant bites. However, reactions to poison ivy, oak, etc. can be severe, especially if they affect the face, which can interfere with vision and breathing. These conditions should always be examined by a dermatologist and treatment recommendations suggested for faster and safer results. Some of the most common symptoms of skin allergies include:

• Itch
• Redness or discoloration
• Rashes
• Urticaria
• Inflammation
• Exfoliation and peeling of the skin