Fungal vs. Bacterial Skin Infection: What’s the Difference?

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With several skin infections evolving, it can be difficult to identify which are fungal and bacterial. While both are common, they differ in cause, appearance, and treatment. Understanding the difference between fungal vs. bacterial skin infection helps ensure proper care.

Fungal Skin Infections

When fungi develop in warm, moist environments, fungal infections come in. A person’s skin may show symptoms such as itchy, red, and scaly patches. Common fungal infections, like athlete’s foot or ringworm, typically occur in areas like the feet, groin, and underarms.
For prompt treatment, apply antifungal creams, sprays, or oral medications. Always keep the affected area dry and clean.

Bacterial Skin Infections

When you have cuts, scratches, or irritated skin, harmful bacteria can enter your body. Bacterial infections like cellulitis or impetigo may appear as swollen, red, and painful areas.
Since this can range from minor to severe cases, skin experts may prescribe you topical or oral antibiotics. In more serious cases, medical attention may be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading deeper into your body.

Skin Infection

Take Control of Your Skin Health

Dermatology clinics provide skin care and solutions that are vital for proper diagnosis and treatment of any fungal or bacterial skin infection.
Here at Pymble Dermatology, you can always seek medical advice if you have symptoms. Reach out and leave your skin woes to us today.

What Is Urticarial Rash?

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Itchy, red, and often uncomfortable, urticarial rashes (commonly known as hives) are a skin condition that many people face at least once in their lifetime. Whether triggered by an allergic reaction, stress, or environmental factors, these raised welts can appear suddenly and disappear just as quickly—or they can persist, causing ongoing discomfort. If you’ve asked yourself, “What is urticarial rash, and how do I manage it?” this post is here to provide clarity and guidance.

This comprehensive look into urticarial rashes explores their common causes, the characteristic symptoms to watch out for, effective treatment options, and how you can reduce the chances of experiencing them in the future.

Urticaria: An Overview

Urticarial rash, or hives, is a skin condition characterised by raised, itchy welts of varying sizes that can appear anywhere on the body. These welts often present as red or skin-coloured and

may blend into each other, forming larger areas of swelling. Urticarial rash can range from mild to severe, and although it is typically not life-threatening, it can still significantly affect your quality of life.

The condition is caused by the release of histamine and other chemicals into the skin, typically as part of the immune system’s protective response. When triggered, this reaction causes blood vessels to expand and leak fluid, leading to the swollen, raised patches associated with hives. The rash itself can last from a few hours to several days; in cases of chronic urticaria, it might even persist for six weeks or longer.

Common Causes of Urticaria

Understanding the causes of an urticarial rash is the first step toward effective treatment and prevention. While the condition can affect anyone, certain triggers are more commonly associated with its development. Here are the primary culprits:

Allergies

Allergic reactions are one of the most common causes of urticarial rash. Exposure to allergens such as pollen, certain foods (e.g., nuts, shellfish, or dairy), insect stings, or pet dander can prompt the body to release histamine, resulting in hives.

Medications

Reactions to medications are another frequent cause. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics like penicillin, and certain pain relievers may cause hives in sensitive individuals. If you suspect a medication is responsible, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Infections

Viral and bacterial infections, such as the common cold, strep throat, or even urinary tract infections, can also trigger hives in some people. These cases are often temporary and subside as the infection resolves.

Stress

Both emotional and physical stress can be a trigger for hives. Stress may disrupt normal immune responses, making the skin more susceptible to flare-ups.

Environmental Factors

Exposure to extreme temperatures (hot or cold), excessive sweating, tight clothing, or even sunlight can irritate the skin and lead to urticarial rash in some individuals.

Unknown Triggers

Chronic urticaria—hives that last for six weeks or longer—is commonly idiopathic, meaning that no specific cause is identified. Despite this, it can still be managed effectively with the right treatment approaches.

Symptoms of Urticarial Rash

The symptoms of an urticarial rash are hard to miss. Here’s what to look out for:

  • Raised, Itchy Welts: These are the hallmark of urticaria. The welts can vary in size and may appear anywhere on the skin.
  • Red- or Skin-Coloured Spots: These welts often appear red on lighter skin tones, though they may match the natural skin tone on darker skin.
  • Swelling: Swollen areas of skin, known as angioedema, can occur around the eyes, lips, hands, feet, or throat. This is more common in severe cases.
  • Temporary Nature: Individual welts tend to appear and disappear over the course of several hours, though new welts may form as old ones fade.
  • Burning or Pain (Occasionally): Though itching is the most common sensation, some people report mild burning or stinging.

If you experience swelling around the throat or difficulty breathing, this could indicate a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Seek medical help immediately in such cases.
Urticarial Rash Treatment

Effective Treatment Options

If you’re dealing with an urticarial rash, the good news is that it’s often manageable. Whether your symptoms are acute or chronic, there are effective ways to find relief.

Over-the-Counter Medications

  • Antihistamines: These are typically the first line of defence against hives. Over-the- counter options like cetirizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Claritin) block histamine and can relieve itching and swelling.
  • Topical Creams: Anti-itch creams or calamine lotion can help soothe localized rash areas while you wait for the antihistamines to take effect.

Prescription Drugs

  • Stronger Antihistamines: If OTC antihistamines aren’t effective, your doctor may prescribe a stronger version.
  • Corticosteroids: These medications are reserved for severe or persistent cases to reduce inflammation and swelling.
  • Biologics: For chronic urticaria that doesn’t respond to traditional treatments, injectable biologics like omalizumab (Xolair) may help control symptoms.

Home Remedies

  • Cool Compresses: Applying a cool, damp cloth to the affected areas can help reduce itching and swelling.
  • Oatmeal Baths: An oatmeal bath can soothe irritated skin and offer temporary relief.
  • Stay Hydrated: Keeping your skin moisturised and drinking plenty of water can improve recovery.

If you’re wondering, “what is urticarial rash and can I remedy it at home,” know that the treatment depends on the severity of your condition. Chronic urticaria may need prescription for the persistent itchiness and rashes to go away.

Preventing Future Outbreaks

While urticaria can’t always be completely avoided, taking steps to minimise triggers can significantly reduce the frequency of future episodes. Here’s how you can be proactive:

  • Identify Your Triggers: Maintain a journal of potential triggers, such as certain foods, environmental conditions, or stress levels, to identify patterns.
  • Avoid Known Allergens: Once you’ve determined your allergens (e.g., through an allergy test), take steps to avoid them.
  • Protect Your Skin: Avoid tight or rough clothing and use gentle skincare products to minimise irritation.
  • Manage Stress: Practicing stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep- breathing exercises can make a big difference.
  • Annual Doctor Visits: Regular consultation with a dermatologist, especially if you’re prone to chronic urticaria, can help you stay on top of the condition.

Wrapping Up

If you’ve had to contend with the discomfort of itchy, raised welts, understanding what is urticarial rash is the first step in finding relief and feeling in control. While this skin condition can be triggered by a variety of factors—ranging from allergies to stress—it is manageable with the right treatment plan and preventative measures. If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a dermatologist is essential for expert guidance and personalised care.

Take the proactive step of protecting your skin, your comfort, and your peace of mind by exploring treatment options and seeking professional advice when needed. Remember, relief from urticaria is possible, and help is always just a consultation away.

Schedule Your Consultation at Pymble Dermatology

If you found yourself asking, “what is urticarial rash and how do I treat it,” we hope you found this post helpful.

To schedule an appointment at Pymble Dermatology, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Skin Tag Removal: A Comprehensive Guide for Our Patients

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Skin health is an important aspect of our overall well-being, with changing conditions and concerns that vary between individuals. One commonly encountered issue is the development of a skin tag—a small, benign growth often found in areas where the skin folds or rubs against itself. While they are generally harmless, these tags can lead to discomfort, questions about their causes, and a desire for effective removal methods. Read through this post for an in-depth look into skin tags, including their causes, symptoms, available treatment options, and tips for prevention.

What Are Skin Tags?

Skin tags, also known as acrochordon, are small, soft growths that typically appear on areas of the skin where friction occurs, such as the neck, underarms, eyelids, and groin. These benign growths are non-cancerous and are made up of collagen fibres and blood vessels surrounded by skin. Skin tags can vary in size, ranging from a few millimetres to over a centimetre, and may be flesh-coloured or slightly darker.

While skin tags do not cause any pain or discomfort, they can become irritated if they rub against clothing, jewellery, or other surfaces. In addition, many patients seek treatment for cosmetic reasons, wishing to remove skin tags for aesthetic or personal preferences.

Seborrhoeic Keratosis

Why Do Skin Tags Form?

The exact cause of skin tags is not fully understood, but several factors contribute to their development:

  1. Friction and Skin Creases: Skin tags are more likely to form in areas where the skin rubs against itself, such as the armpits, neck, groin, or under the breasts.
  2. Aging: As we age, skin tags become more common, especially after the age of 40.
  3. Genetics: A family history of skin tags can increase your risk of developing them.
  4. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal shifts, such as those during pregnancy or certain health conditions, can lead to the development of skin tags.
  5. Obesity and Diabetes: Increased body weight and diabetes are linked to a higher likelihood of skin tags, possibly due to increased skin folds or insulin resistance.

How Are Skin Tags Removed?

If you have skin tags and they are causing discomfort or wish to have them removed for cosmetic reasons, there are several removal methods available. It’s important to always seek advice from a healthcare professional before attempting to remove a skin tag, especially if it’s located on sensitive areas such as the eyelids.

At Pymble Dermatology we offer safe and effective removal options for skin tags:

  • Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves the use of liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the skin tag tissue. This method is ideal for smaller growths and is quick, with minimal recovery time. While cryotherapy is generally not painful, individuals may experience slight stinging or redness following the procedure.
  • Excision: One of the most effective methods to remove a skin tag is via surgical excision. This procedure involves using sterile medical tools to carefully cut the skin tag away from the base. Surgical excision is a quick and straightforward option that is often recommended for larger or bothersome skin tags. It is typically performed under local anaesthesia to ensure patient comfort.
  • Electrosurgery: Electrosurgery, also known as cauterisation, uses a controlled electrical current to burn off the skin tag. This method is highly effective, particularly for skin tags located in sensitive areas, as it minimises bleeding.

Over-the-Counter Solutions There are also over-the-counter kits available that claim to remove skin tags by freezing or drying them out. While these products are convenient, it’s advised to use them under a healthcare professional’s guidance to avoid complications or scarring.

Avoid DIY Remedies

A word of caution—it is not advisable to attempt DIY skin tag removal at home without proper tools and knowledge. Using unsterilised tools or attempting to cut off a skin tag on your own can lead to infection and scarring. If you are considering skin tag removal, consult a trained dermatologist to determine the most appropriate method for your specific needs.

skin tag Over-the-Counter Solutions

Prevention Tips: How to Reduce the Risk of Skin Tags

While skin tags may not always be preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

  1. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reducing excess weight can minimize the formation of skin folds and friction, which are key factors in the development of skin tags.
  2. Minimize Friction: Wear loose-fitting clothing to prevent skin irritation and friction, especially in areas prone to skin tags, like the neck and underarms.
  3. Moisturize Regularly: Keeping your skin well-moisturized can reduce irritation that may lead to skin tag formation. Use gentle, non-irritating moisturizers.
  4. Monitor Changes in Your Skin: Regularly check for new growths or changes in existing ones. If you notice a new skin tag or changes in one you already have, schedule an appointment with us for a thorough evaluation.

When to See a Dermatologist

While skin tags are typically harmless, it’s important to see a dermatologist if:

  • A skin tag changes in appearance (e.g., increases in size, becomes painful, or bleeds).
  • A skin tag is in a sensitive area, such as the eyelids or genital region.
  • You have concerns about a new skin growth or need professional advice on removal options.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, contact Pymble Dermatology today. Our team of professionals is ready to provide personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your needs.

The Uses of Phototherapy (Narrowband UVB) in Sydney

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Skin diseases are common in Australia, with 16% of Australians going to doctors and hospital consulting for their dermatological concerns and needs. Since this number is not small, it has been a practice to seek out measures to prevent skin diseases from recurring. One common treatment is phototherapy.

Phototherapy, also known as a light treatment, is commonly used to treat a wide range of skin conditions and illnesses, including eczema, psoriasis, and vitiligo. If you have these conditions, seeking help from your trusted dermatologist and narrow-band UVB may be one of the treatment options.

Phototherapy has long been used to treat medical conditions dating back as far as 3500 years ago when ancient Egyptians and Indians used sunlight to treat various skin disorders.
With many breakthroughs in modern medicine, phototherapy is now highly regarded as an effective treatment for skin disorders and many different conditions. Since it has been popularized, the use of phototherapy in medical fields grew, and more techniques were developed. Eventually, it received widespread acceptance in the medical community.

SKIN DISORDERS

Eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, itchy skin and other skin conditions can be treated through phototherapy. This treatment involves using UV light – a kind of light present in sunlight- to prevent skin cell inflammation and growth.

A healthy dose of sunlight every day can help ease the symptoms of your skin disorders. But take note, that rays coming directly from the sun can worsen or even up the chances of getting skin cancer. If you really want to bask in the heat of the sun always apply sunscreen with an SPF 50 on areas that don’t need UV light exposure.

A controlled and regulated UV light is more effective than exposing yourself directly to the sunlight. In phototherapy, there are many different techniques and types to aid different kinds of disorders.

There are three types of phototherapies used in treating skin disorders:

  • Broadband UVB: This therapy uses the full spectrum of ultraviolet-B radiation. It is important to note that this treatment is used for dermatitis and psoriasis. Not available at Pymble Dermatology
  • Narrowband UVB: Unlike BBUVB where the full spectrum of ultraviolet B rays are utilized, Narrowband UVB uses a small and dedicated part of UVB radiation. It is more intense and widely used by seasoned dermatologists. At Pymble Dermatology, we offer Narrowband UVB to many patients with psoriasis, vitiligo and eczema and the result is encouraging.
  • PUVA: Psolaren ultraviolet-A (PUVA) combines UVA light with a chemical called psolaren. PUVA cures conditions like vitiligo, cutaneous T cell lymphoma. This treatment is the last resort when all other phototherapy treatments have failed to work as it is the most intense and is said to have many side effects. Not available at Pymble Dermatology

SIDE EFFECTS OF PHOTOTHERAPY

Phototherapy as a treatment for various disorders, it has little to no long-term side effects. If any, phototherapy has several temporary short-term side effects, such as skin redness, itching, folliculitis, blisters, headache, irritability, rashes, and dehydration. These side effects are nonetheless inconsequential to the benefits of the treatment.

CAN YOU HAVE A PHOTOTHERAPY SESSION?

Since we are dealing with UVB and UVA light, it is good to note that you should at least inform your dermatologist or avoid being treated with phototherapy if:

  • You are a nursing mother or pregnant
  • You have lupus with photosensitivity
  • You are on medication which makes you photosensitive
  • You have a history of previous skin cancer

During the consultation, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Discuss all the enquiries you have in mind. Be prepared and never miss your appointments to enjoy the full benefits of phototherapy (2-3 times a week for approximately 20 times)

How Dermatologists Correct Spots on Your Skin

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The skin is one thing many people obsess about. Some even took a whole lot of time to do their 10-step skincare routine to make their skin look flawless. Even with this incredible kind of caution, blemishes and spots on the skin are unavoidable to Aussies, especially with the erratic weather.

If you have either white, red, or dark spots, you are not alone. While these discolorations are often not dangerous, it’s still best to see your trusted dermatologist. They can help you cure your spots and advise the best treatment for you.

Kinds of Spots

1. White Spots

These are results of depigmentation or color loss. They are common to people who lack Vitamin D and Vitamin E intake.

White spots are often:

Sunspots

Excessive exposure to everything is unhealthy. Same with sunlight, it can have an unexpected effect on your skin. Sunspots can also appear from extended tanning bed use. These are more common to white blokes but can appear on anyone. Most sunspots are benign and painless.

Tinea versicolor

One of the most common fungal infections, tinea versicolor shows up as white spots on your skin. It can also appear as pink, red or brown. Though common in people living in tropical countries, it can affect anyone.

Vitiligo

Due to the loss of melanocytes, this autoimmune disorder leaves white patches on the skin. The extent and rate of vitiligo can be unpredictable. Even superstars like Michael Jackson can be affected by vitiligo.

Milia

Found around the eye, nose, and cheek area, milia are small white bumps that are common to newborn babies. They can cause discomfort but are generally painless and harmless.

Milia can be categorized into two: primary and secondary. Primary milia appear when keratin is trapped under the skin, while secondary milia are the result of post-inflammatory hypopigmentation.

2. Red Spots

Red spots are invariably the most common skin problem. Most of the time, these spots are itchy, painful, and swollen. Unlike white spots, red spots can pose serious harm to your skin. Since most red spots are painful, shy away from self-medicating them and seek medical advice immediately.

Acne

Among all skin disorders, this is one we can all relate to. Acne is a skin condition that happens to almost everyone during adolescence. Clog oil in the sebaceous gland is one of the many causes of acne.

Atopic eczema

This is also known as atopic dermatitis. Unlike the other types of spots this is a long-term condition most people suffer from.

Rosacea

It is a condition that causes redness and visible blood vessels in your face. Rosacea can often be mistaken for acne or other skin problems. It may also produce small, red, pus-filled bumps.

3. Dark Spots

Our skin produces melanin to counteract the effects of harmful UV rays. Melanin is the hormone that gives color to the eyes, and hair. The result of excessive melanin is hyperpigmentation or dark spots.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

This is a skin discoloration resulted in an inflammatory lesion, like acne, scars, and wounds. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can easily be cured by laser and peeling treatments.

Linea nigra

When one gets pregnant, a dark, vertical line appears lengthwise down the middle of the abdomen. For some mothers, this is nothing to worry about since this fades over time.

Solar Lentigos

This is also caused by the sun’s rays. It is a result of melanocytes multiplying because of UV radiation. It is also known as an aged spot and is more come to people aged 40 and above.

Treatment for Spots

When you see spots on your face, you always worry and try the best ways to remove them. Whether it’s a white, red, or dark spot, it’s best to ask your dermatologist about the proper ways to treat and remedy these spots.

These are some procedures and treatments your skin doctor does to your skin:

Topical Treatments

There are bleaching creams that your dermatologist will prescribe to gradually eliminate your spots. This is not a one-time solution and would take a couple of months to see the effects.

Cosmetic Procedures

Most often, these procedures are used to enhance the aesthetic value of the skin. Some procedures may not be suitable for people with sensitive skin.

Laser Treatment

In this procedure, the skin doctor uses concentrated light energy, which burns dark spots off.

Chemical Peels

With the help of salicylic acid and glycolic acid, the doctor administers chemical peels to reveal a healthier and more evenly toned skin

Light Therapy

Eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, itchy skin and other skin conditions can be cured through phototherapy. This treatment involves using UV light – a kind of light present in sunlight- to prevent skin cell inflammation and growth.

Cryotherapy

Known as cold therapy, cryotherapy is a technique where extremely low temperatures are applied to the body for several minutes. This therapy can be administered in a specific region of the body or the whole body. Localized cryotherapy is a common first aid for some injuries. Here, ice packs, ice massages, and coolants are used to ease and alleviate the symptoms of the injury.

Destruction Curettage

Involves the process of scraping the skin with a curette to remove skin tissue. It is commonly used to scrape away skin lesions.

Microdermabrasion

This is another well-known exfoliating treatment for hyperpigmentation that uses tiny particles to sand away dead skin. Microdermabrasion is best for milder hyperpigmentation conditions since the results are modest in terms of improving the appearance of skin discoloration.

Spots no more!

Though spots are deemed to be harmless, it is in your best interest to seek professional and medical advice. More than anything, a good and glowing skin boosts your confidence to do more and be more. Finding the right skin treatments in Sydney can have a significant impact on your well-being. Pymble Dermatology prides itself on innovative skincare technologies for you. For enquiries, contact us by calling 028 0685 006.