If you suspect you may be having allergic reactions on your skin, you could easily find out the answer with a skin patch test. One simple test could determine if you are allergic to many substances such as latex, medications, fragrances, preservatives, hair dyes, metals, and resins.

Skin rashes are usually caused by dermatitis, which is when your skin reacts to an irritant, virus, or allergen. They can occur in one spot, or all over your body. A skin rash could be a temporary condition, or it could affect your entire life. In that case, a dermatologist can craft a treatment plan for your symptoms.

Eczema, a type of dermatitis, is a common skin condition that affects 31 million Americans. There are a variety of causes, ranging from environmental factors to genetics. Some people have a gene variation that affects the skin’s ability to provide protection to itself. This weak barrier may also trigger an immune system response that causes inflamed skin and other symptoms.

Psoriasis is classified as an immune-mediated disease, meaning it is characterized by inflammation caused by dysfunction of the immune system. On the skin, psoriasis causes skin cells to build up and create patches. These are visible signs of inflammation inside the immune system that show up on your skin.

People of many ages experience acne, not just teens. Many people have acne in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond. Acne appears on the skin as a zit, commonly known as a pimple. A zit is caused by an interplay between bacteria, oil, hormones, and inflammation. Not all acne is hormonal, however. It can form simply from your face’s oil glands overproducing oil that combines with dead skin cells, blocking your pores and hair follicles, and causing the body to respond with the puss and redness we’re all familiar with.