A chronic, itchy inflammation of the skin that usually affects more women than men, and more Asians and American Indians than other races.

It is a result of chronic scratching of a skin area, which causes itching, triggering more scratching, leading to a vicious circle. The exact cause is unknown. Psychologic factors could play a role.

The condition can occur anywhere on the skin, including the anus. Symptoms may include:

• Itching

• Dryness and scaling

• Dark areas from rubbing

Effective treatment usually includes cessation of scratching or rubbing. Other treatment may include:

• Antihistamines or topical medications to control itching

• Corticosteroid creams

• Over-the-counter moisturizing creams 

A chronic rash that most commonly affects middle-aged people and is more common in the winter.

The cause is unknown.

The condition is characterized by circular spots with small blisters, scabs, or scales. Although the condition can occur anywhere on the body, it usually appears on the back of the arms and legs, and on the buttocks. Other symptoms may include:

• Itchy areas of pimples

• Dry skin

Always consult your doctor for a diagnosis.

Treatment depends on the individual person, as one treatment approach is not effective for everyone with this condition. Treatment may include:

• Moisturizers

• Antibiotics

• Corticosteroids

• Ultraviolet light therapy

A red, bumpy rash around the mouth and chin that usually affects women between the ages of 20 and 60.

The cause is unknown.

Symptoms may include little blisters, skin scaling, and acne- or rosacea-like bumps.

Treatment may include:

• Tetracyclines (antibiotics)

• Isotretinoin (acne medication)

A chronic inflammation of the lower legs. Caused by pooling of blood and fluid under the skin. The condition tends to affect people with varicose veins and edema (swelling). It is most commonly seen in the ankles and can spread up to the knees.

The skin may turn dark brown over time from this condition. Other symptoms may include:

• Red and scaly skin

• Swelling

• Warm skin

• Skin breakdown

The goal of treatment is to reduce the pooling of blood in the veins in the legs. Treatment may include:

• Elevating the legs

• Wearing prescription compression stockings to prevent fluid accumulation

• Applying cool compresses

• Keeping the skin clean to prevent infection

• Corticosteroid creams

• Antibiotics (if infection occurs)

• Zinc oxide dressings

• Skin grafts (if the skin develops large ulcers)