Skin problems can be as simple as a few acnes pimples, or more complex, such as rosacea, liver spots or psoriasis. These same skin problems can be moderate or severe. Skin problems can be the result of an allergic reaction, or they can be genetic. Ethnicity sometimes plays a role in skin problems as well. Skin problems appear and persist for a variety of reasons, and most can be controlled, or even cured with treatments. First you need to know the symptoms.

One type of skin problem teenagers and young people seem to suffer is acne. Pimples, whiteheads and blackheads, pustules and some skin cysts fall under the heading of acne. Acnes is the result of oily and greasy secretions from the skins sebaceous glands that plug the pores or hair follicles. If the pores are large, the clogging creates black heads, but if the pores are tiny the clogging creates whiteheads. Both types can cause skin problems and develop into tender inflammations, lumps and nodules. In the case of severe acne, cysts develop below the skins surface, and they can become inflamed and infected. Light and even moderate acne can be treated with over the counter medications and a regimen of face washing. Severe acne conditions should be brought to the attention of a dermatologist for treatment.

Too much sun, or sun equivalent, resulting in sunburn can cause skin problems. Harmful, ultraviolet rays from the sun can literally burn the skin. This can happen within 30 minutes of exposure to the sun. Sunburn, depending on the severity, can result in fever, nausea and vomiting or chills. Initially, the skin turns red about 2 to 6 hours after exposure and feels irritated. Severe cases of sunburn, such as that suffered by rafters, can be complicated by severe skin burning and blistering, massive fluid loss, electrolyte imbalance and infection. Precautions can be taken to eliminate or minimize sunburn such as minimizing exposure to the sun and using a skin protection lotion while in the sun. Severe sun burn can also lead to skin cancer.

Poison ivy and sumac are two environmentally generated skin irritations that can cause skin problems. Anyone can be subjected poison ivy and sumac by touching the leaves of one of the plants, touching something that has touched the leaves, yanking the vines out by the roots, or coming in contact with smoke from burning ivy and sumac. Poison ivy and sumac will cause great skin irritation and itching. Constant scratching can cause the rash to become infected. There are over the counter medications that can be applied to alleviate the itching, but it will take time for the rash to clear up.