Ever look at an unfamiliarspot or blemishand wonder if it’s ablackhead,pimple, orsun spot?
Worse, ever consider that it could be something more?
To the untrained eye, unusual skin presentations can cause confusion and alarm.
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They can also go misdiagnosed, often not getting the attention they require.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
In some cases,skin cancercan be mistaken as asmall blemish.
Hartman recommends heading to your dermatologist if you have persistent irritation around the mouth area.
Rosacea
“Many people think rosacea equates to bright red, irritated skin,” says Hartman.
Butrosaceacan look less red on darker skin, or appear similar to acne.
But a proper diagnosis is key to treatment, as a misdiagnosis could potentially exacerbate the condition.
“We don’t understand why this happens.”
Dermatologists can suggest prescription options to help with inflammation.
Despite their close relationship, “these skin concerns need very different treatments,” says Marmur.
Most dermatologists we surveyed call out eczema as a common misdiagnosis, and its potential mistaken identities are numerous.
“Eczema presents as a rash that itches,” says Hartman.
According Marmur, eczema is also often confused for acne.
Eczema might even masquerade as ringworm, a fungal infection.
“I find that more times than not patients are actually suffering from eczema.”
Why play “Is it ringworm or acne?”
yourself when you could let an expert tell you for sure?
A proper diagnosis is the first step to a resolution.
For more advice from dermatologists:
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