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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #18796
68 days ago
111

patches on skin - #18796

Navya

I am kinda freaking out here. Last week, I started noticing these weird patches on my skin, especially on my arms and legs. At first, I thought it was just dry skin, but they got really red and itchy. Like, super itchy! I tried some lotion, but it didn’t help at all. The patches on skin just seemed to get worse. Then I thought maybe it’s eczema? Like, my cousin has had that, but hers looked different. I went to the pharmacy, and the guy suggested a cream for dermatitis (but I think he was just trying to make a sale, ugh), and I am not sure that's it either. I mean, they are kinda flaky and some patches on skin even seem a bit raised. I don’t have any allergies that I know of, but my skin has just gone bonkers! Googling it didn't help much, and I am super paranoid now. What could these patches on skin mean? Should I be seeing a dermatologist or is it something that will just go away on its own? I don’t want to ignore it but also don’t wanna overreact, ya know? What do you all think? Any tips or experiences with patches on skin would be super helpful!

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Doctors' responses

The red, itchy patches you’re experiencing can be frustrating and concerning. Several skin conditions might lead to such symptoms. One common cause is eczema, which tends to present as dry, itchy patches that can become inflamed and flaky. However, you’re right that eczema often has a variety of appearances, and it might look different from what your cousin has. Psoriasis is another condition to consider — it can cause red, scaly patches that are often raised. The fact that it wasn’t responsive to regular lotion can also point towards something other than just dry skin. Dermatitis, which covers a range of skin inflammations, could also be a possibility, especially if there’s been any recent exposure to irritants or new products. Although over-the-counter creams for dermatitis can provide relief, they might not be sufficient if you are dealing with conditions like psoriasis or a more severe form of eczema. In your situation, the practical next step would definitely be consulting a dermatologist. They can examine your skin more closely and might perform tests like a skin biopsy or patch testing to identify the exact cause. Seeing a dermatologist means you can get a diagnosis and appropriate treatment — whether that’s prescription-strength topical treatments, oral medications, or even phototherapy in certain cases. It’s good not to ignore skin changes—especially when they’re persistent and uncomfortable. Meanwhile, avoid any harsh soaps or fragrances that could further irritate your skin, and keep an eye on any new products you’ve recently started to use, as these could also be contributing to the problem. Seeking timely medical advice will help in preventing any progression and getting relief more quickly.

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