Treating Skin Problems

Treating skin problems can be tricky without a proper diagnosis. Learn more about treating skin problems at HowStuffWorks.

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Somehow, an itchy, red rash appeared on your skin and you're racking your brain to figure out how it got there. As you ponder your pruritic predicament, the rash seems to be growing. Could it be something serious?

By Matteson Cade

Skin is your body's outer shield, protecting it from the elements, fending off the sun's damaging rays and putting up with a number of other environmental irritants. It's no wonder that your skin eventually loses some of its elasticity.

By Sarah Jourdain

Tea tree oil is a common herbal medicine that you might find in several cosmetic products, including shampoo and deodorant. What can the oil do for your skin, and what side effects should you be aware of?

By Elizabeth Whitmore

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Many people enjoy mint-flavored chewing gum and toothpastes, and mint teas are popular choices at coffee shops. Aside from its soothing scents, can mint provide benefits to your skin?

By Aida Duncan

The older you get, the more your skin loses its ability to stretch. Part of this is due to a breakdown in collagen, the protein in your skin that gives it strength and support. Are there any natural ways to jump-start collagen production?

By Shannon Cicero

If you've ever looked at your reflection in the mirror and seen nothing but enlarged pores, you may have wondered if there's any way to get rid of them. Some people suggest hot water or steam -- but is there any way to actually "shrink" your pores?

By Elizabeth Forester

If you notice an embarrassing odor when you take off your shoes, you may wonder if there's anything do about it. What does hyperhidrosis have to do with smelly feet, and what can Botox do to treat it?

By Susan Sentry

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Most people are susceptible to patchy discoloration, scarring and other skin traumas. To even things out, some people resort to bleaching their skin. Is it safe, and what does hydroquinone have to do with it?

By Alexander Page

Getting a massage can be more than just relaxing. Aside from providing stress relief, the practice may also treat some respiratory, neurological and muscular disorders. But is massage good for your skin, or can a session on the table cause problems?

By Matteson Cade

If you suffer from constantly dry hands, simple tasks like picking up objects or shaking hands can be uncomfortable. What can you do to lock in more moisture?

By Jamie Palamon

If your boots were made for walking, chances are you've picked up some calluses along the way. Is it alright to file away at hardened skin with a foot scraper? And what should you consider if you have diabetes?

By Elizabeth Whitmore

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Individually, honey and vinegar both have properties that can potentially soothe and smooth skin. But what are the advantages to using these ingredients at the same time?

By Jackie Weaver

Lemon juice is a strong food acid that can do everything from relieve a sore throat to brighten your laundry whites. You may have heard that it can also get rid of freckles. Is this true, or is it more of a temporary solution?

By Elizabeth Whitmore

Shea butter is a common ingredient in moisturizers and scar prevention creams. But how well does it actually work as a means for making existing scars disappear?

By Sarah Rutland

Blue-light therapy helps clear acne by attacking the bacteria that causes it to spread, but the procedure doesn't work for everyone. Who can benefit from Blu-U treatments?

By Christina Pander

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Rose water is probably best known for its aromatic benefits, but it can actually make you look better, too. What gives this byproduct of distillation its healing properties?

By Aida Duncan

Looking for an exfoliation alternative? The controversial use of doctor fish, banned in at least 14 states, is supposed to help to get rid of dead skin cells that haven't sloughed off naturally.

By Elizabeth Whitmore

Sesame oil is known for adding flavor to many kinds of exotic dishes, but a similar version of it might also add some spice to your skin care routine. What can this oil do for your skin?

By Jamie Palamon

For generations, people have been taking Epsom salt baths to cure their ills. What is it about this naturally occurring compound that makes it so trusted?

By Christina Pander

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Face steaming is a common treatment for cleaning pores and helping skin products penetrate better. You can do it at home, but knowing the proper way can help you avoid harming your skin.

By Susan Sentry

It's no secret that the nutrients from a glass of milk hold plenty of benefits for your health. But can bathing in milk be as good for your skin as drinking it is for the rest of your body?

By Rebecca Regan

Dirt and oil clogging up pores can often lead to acne breakouts. But how is the mud in a mask different from the dirt we encounter in during the course of an average day?

By Aida Duncan

Some people use fasting as a strategy to shed pounds quickly. But even if excess weight is the cause of your cellulite, could fasting provide a permanent solution?

By Sarah Rutland

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Dry skin is not only annoying, it can lead to wrinkles. But curing dry skin with aromatherapy -- using essential oils like peppermint and lavender -- is a natural solution. Learn how to improve dry skin.

By Kathi Keville

Unfortunately, oily skin is not just for teenagers. The good news is that there are plenty of simple, effective home remedies that help improve your complexion. Read about ways you can freshen you face naturally.

By Editors of Consumer Guide