Skin Problems

Skin problems, ranging from mild acne to skin cancer, affect people of all ages. Learn more about skin problems at HowStuffWorks.

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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

Varicose veins, the large, blue veins that often pop up on the legs, are common as you age, but certain conditions can cause them, too. What's behind these bulging blood vessels, and how can you treat them?

By Laurie L. Dove

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You may think that your skin is safe from the elements once swimsuit season ends and the air gets cold. That's not true. Most people know that the winter sun can still harm skin, but the wind can be just as dangerous.

By John Barrymore

This exotic sounding affliction is actually pretty common and tame. Xanthomas are bumps that form when fat collects in pockets under the skin, and usually occurs in those over the age of 40.

By Sarah Siddons

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

Is it possible to be allergic to the sun? What can be done about this allergy?

By John Barrymore

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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

You just couldn't resist that new pair of shoes and now they've literally rubbed you the wrong way. Blisters can be painful, but the good news is they're relatively harmless and in most cases you can treat them yourself.

By Sarah Siddons

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

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Almost everyone has experienced bags, or sagging skin, under their eyes at some point. But why do some people get them more than others?

By Sarah Siddons

There are many factors that could cause red blotches to appear on your skin. Find out how you can tell if they're the result of an allergic reaction.

By Sarah Siddons

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

Although acne is typically associated with the teenage years, many adults also find themselves fighting breakouts. Find out what's behind adult acne and what treatment options are available.

By John Barrymore

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A giant zit on the tip of your nose can ruin your day -- especially since acne loves to show up right before a first date. What's the best way to deal with it?

By Tom Scheve

It's safe to say that no one's a big fan of herpes. But there's an extremely good chance that you have at least one of the eight types. Don't worry, chicken pox is one of them.

By Shanna Freeman

While you can't do much about the way a cold sore looks, you can do a few things to help decrease discomfort, speed healing and keep it from coming back.

Albinism is a condition where your body makes less than the normal amount of the pigment melanin. It affects one in every 18,000 to 20,000 Americans.

By Susan L. Nasr

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Though some people might not sweat the small stuff, those with hyperhidrosis sweat the small stuff, the large stuff and everything between. Is there any way to prevent or cure excessive sweating?

By Jessika Toothman

Chicken pox causes you to sprout blisters and scratch like crazy. Why did parents intentionally expose their children to this itchy illness before routine vaccinations became available?

By Cristen Conger

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

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Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection of the skin that causes redness, itching, and other symptoms. Learn 25 home remedies that can help you prevent and treat athlete's foot.

By Editors of Consumer Guide

Your skin is an important defender against invaders. It usually fends off trouble quite successfully. Sometimes, however, an allergen gets the best of your skin, causing a reaction.

By Linnea Lundgren