Written and medically reviewed by Dorcas Morak, Pharm.D
November is National Healthy Skin Month, an annual campaign led by the American Academy of Dermatology encouraging people to pay closer attention to their skin. Skin conditions affect millions of Americans every year, ranging from mild irritation to chronic inflammatory diseases. Understanding common skin conditions, recognizing their symptoms, and knowing which treatments are available can help you find relief sooner and avoid unnecessary healthcare costs.
Acne Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, often worsened by hormones, excess oil production, or bacteria. Mild acne may respond to over-the-counter products containing benzoyl peroxide or adapalene, while more persistent cases often require prescription treatments such as topical retinoids like tretinoin, topical antibiotics such as clindamycin, or oral antibiotics like doxycycline. Early treatment can help reduce the risk of permanent scarring.
Eczema vs. Dry Skin: What's the Difference?
Although dry skin can often improve with regular moisturizing, eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes intense itching, redness, and cracked skin. Treatment typically includes fragrance-free moisturizers, topical corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone or triamcinolone, and, for moderate to severe cases, prescription medications like dupilumab (Dupixent®). Avoiding known triggers such as harsh soaps, fragrances, and allergens may also help reduce flare-ups.
Rosacea Symptoms, Common Triggers, and Treatments
Rosacea commonly causes persistent facial redness, visible blood vessels, and acne-like bumps. Sun exposure, spicy foods, alcohol, hot beverages, stress, and extreme temperatures are among the most common triggers. Prescription treatments including metronidazole, azelaic acid, ivermectin cream, or brimonidine gel can help control symptoms and reduce flare frequency.
Common Fungal Skin Infections and Their Treatments
Fungal infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm, and jock itch thrive in warm, moist environments and spread through direct contact or contaminated surfaces. Mild infections often respond to topical antifungal medications such as clotrimazole or terbinafine, while more persistent or widespread infections may require oral antifungal medications such as fluconazole or terbinafine.
What Is Contact Dermatitis?
Contact dermatitis develops when the skin reacts to an irritant or allergen such as poison ivy, nickel jewelry, fragrances, cosmetics, soaps, or household cleaning products. Symptoms may include redness, itching, swelling, or blistering. Treatment usually involves avoiding the trigger, applying moisturizers, and using topical corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone or triamcinolone. More severe reactions may require prescription-strength medications.
Psoriasis vs. Eczema: How to Tell the Difference
Both psoriasis and eczema cause red, irritated skin, but psoriasis typically produces thicker, well-defined patches covered with silvery scales, while eczema is usually more intensely itchy and less sharply defined. A dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment. Depending on severity, psoriasis may be treated with topical corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs such as calcipotriene, light therapy, or biologic medications such as Adalimumab (Humira) or Secukinumab (Cosentyx)
Skin Cancer Screening and Early Detection
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. The three primary types are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, with melanoma being the most likely to spread if not detected early. Performing monthly skin self-exams and discussing your personal risk factors with your healthcare provider or dermatologist can help determine how often you should have professional skin examinations.
The ABCDE Rule for Detecting Melanoma
The ABCDE rule helps identify potentially cancerous moles:
- A – Asymmetry
- B – Border irregularity
- C – Color variation
- D – Diameter greater than 6 millimeters
- E – Evolving size, shape, or color
Any mole that develops one or more of these warning signs should be evaluated promptly by a healthcare professional.
How Diet and Hydration Support Healthy Skin
Proper hydration and a balanced diet support the skin's natural barrier and overall health. Foods rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and vitamins A, C, D, and E help support normal skin function. While healthy eating alone won't cure chronic skin conditions, it can complement medical treatment and contribute to healthier skin.
Why Daily Sunscreen Matters Year-Round
Ultraviolet (UV) exposure contributes to premature skin aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer throughout the year—not just during summer. Dermatologists recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. When spending extended time outdoors, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours and after swimming or excessive sweating.
When Should You See a Dermatologist for Skin Problems?
Schedule an evaluation if you have persistent rashes, sores that do not heal, changing moles, severe acne that doesn't improve with over-the-counter treatment, recurrent skin infections, or sudden changes affecting your hair or nails. Early diagnosis and treatment can often prevent minor skin conditions from becoming more difficult to manage.
Save on Prescription Skin Medications with the RxLess® Assurance Plan
Prescription medications used to treat skin conditions—including tretinoin, doxycycline, clobetasol, triamcinolone, metronidazole, azelaic acid, terbinafine, and many other FDA-approved medications—can vary in price depending on the pharmacy.
Before filling your prescription, compare prices with the RxLess® Assurance Plan to see if another nearby participating pharmacy offers a lower price. Download the free RxLess® app to check prices on your medications and start saving whenever you fill a prescription at a participating pharmacy.
