Causes of Skin Inflammation
Apr 25, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gan Liqiang
Introduction
Skin inflammation can be caused by the following factors:
- **Allergic factors**: For example, sun exposure may lead to solar dermatitis (photodermatitis), resulting from either a photosensitivity reaction or phototoxicity. Patients may also develop skin inflammation due to allergic reactions to various skincare products, cosmetics, soaps, or certain foods.
- **Physical factors**: Scalding from hot water can cause skin inflammation.
- **Infectious factors**.
In today’s society, some individuals develop severe skin inflammation, accompanied by pain and itching—symptoms that warrant prompt attention and timely consultation with a dermatologist. What causes skin inflammation?
Causes of Skin Inflammation
Skin inflammation may arise from several factors: Allergic factors: For example, sun exposure can trigger solar dermatitis—a phototoxic or photoallergic reaction. Patients may also develop skin inflammation due to allergies to various skincare products, cosmetics, soaps, or certain foods. Physical factors: Scalding by hot water can cause thermal injury and subsequent skin inflammation. Infectious factors: Erysipelas, for instance, involves inflammation of the skin and subcutaneous connective tissue—or even lymphatic vessels.
Clinical manifestations of skin inflammation are highly variable and commonly include erythema, papules, urticarial wheals, vesicles, erosion, and exudation. Chronic scratching often leads to lichenification—characterized by thickened, leathery skin. Histopathologically, skin inflammation is marked by inflammatory infiltrates in both the epidermis and dermis; in more severe cases, subcutaneous fat may also be involved. Since the skin comprises the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous adipose tissue, inflammation affecting any of these layers is collectively termed “dermatitis.”
Patients presenting with skin inflammation should seek evaluation at a hospital dermatology department. A thorough clinical examination by a dermatologist—along with appropriate diagnostic tests—is essential to establish an accurate diagnosis and initiate proper treatment. Additionally, patients should avoid spicy, stimulating, and seafood-based foods during this period. We hope this information proves helpful to you!
