Skin School

Acne develops when pores become clogged with dead skin and oil, allowing bacteria to build up. The skin becomes inflamed and can turn red and swollen. It can affect anyone from teens to adults, and ranges from mild breakouts to severe scarring acne.

Key points: Acne is treatable at every stage. Treatment often includes a combination of topical creams (such as retinoids, benzoyl peroxide and antibiotics) and oral medication (such as antibiotics, hormonal treatment, and isotretinoin for resistant case).

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common inflammatory skin condition that causes dry and itchy skin. During flare-ups, the skin often becomes red, irritated, and intensely itchy, while long-standing eczema can lead to dry, thickened, and cracked skin. Although it is most common in children, eczema can affect people of all ages and often follows a relapsing course.

Key points: Treatment usually combines regular application of unscented moisturizers, gentle and fragrance-free cleansers, topical steroid creams and trigger-avoidance. Oral medication may be considered in more severe disease.

Hyperhidrosis means you sweat much more than normal — even when you are not hot, anxious or exercising. It most often affects the armpits, hands, feet and creases, and is very treatable.

Key points: Treatment options include strong aluminium-chloride antiperspirants, iontophoresis, botulinum toxin injections, and oral medication. The right approach depends on the area affected and severity.

Hyperpigmentation describes areas of skin that appear darker, usually from excess melanin. Common types include melasma, sunspots and post-inflammatory pigmentation — often driven by sun exposure, hormones or certain medications.

Key points: Accurate diagnosis is essential first. We strongly advise against unsupervised over-the-counter lightening products, as some can cause permanent pigmentation. Sun protection is the foundation of every treatment plan.

Psoriasis is an inflammatory condition that causes patches of skin to become red, thick and flaky, often topped with silvery-white scale. It can affect the scalp, genitals and skin folds, and may cause nail changes and itching.

Key points: While psoriasis cannot be cured, symptoms can be well controlled with topical treatments, phototherapy, and oral or injectable systemic medications — selected to suit the severity of your condition.

Rosacea often causes sensitive skin, flushing, redness and small visible blood vessels on the face. It may occur in both adults and children. Triggers can include spicy foods, alcohol, sunlight and stress.

Key points: Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and preventing flare-ups using topical gels and creams or oral medication, alongside gentle skincare, daily sunscreen, and trigger management.

Skin cancer is a common cancer in South Africa. The main types include melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma. While melanoma is the most aggressive form and requires early diagnosis, the vast majority of skin cancers—including basal and squamous cell carcinomas—are highly treatable when detected early.

Key points: Use the ABCDE guide for self-checks (Asymmetry, Border, Colour, Diameter over 6mm, Evolving). Annual professional skin checks are recommended for most adults — more often if you have risk factors.