Abnormal Skin
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Try one of these related symptoms.
Rashes
Leg rash
Hand skin is dry
There is a sore on the side
Rash on the wrist
Facial skin problems
I have acne on the heel
Skin hurts if I press it
Rash behind neck
Affected area of skin has stinging or tingling
Area of skin feels like it keeps getting poked by a needle
Rash starting from the face
About the Symptom
Skin diseases cause many kinds of skin abnormalities and changes. These can range from growths that are benign or cancerous, and rashes that can itch or blister, or burn. Each of these conditions can look different in everyone.
When to See a Doctor
Seek professional care if you experience any of the following symptoms
- Fever
Possible Causes
Generally, Abnormal skin can be related to:
- Contact Dermatitis
Rashes that occur due to direct contact with a substance, or an allergic reaction to it. Examples include reactions to jewelry or watches, or to plants like poison ivy.
- Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic Arthritis is an inflammatory joint condition associated with the skin disorder Psoriasis, which causes red, scaly patches on the skin. Joint pain, swelling and stiffness are typical signs of Psoriatic Arthritis.
- Palmoplantar Pustulosis
This rare condition involves small pus-filled blisters that repeatedly appear on the palms and soles. The exact cause is unknown, but is theorized to be an auto-immune condition. Rarely it can be a reaction to medication.
- Lichen Nitidus / Lichen Striatus
- Id reaction
- Pustular Psoriasis
- Folliculitis, Furuncle, Carbuncle
- Tinea Pedis (Athlete's Foot)
- Asteatotic Eczema
Related Serious Diseases
Sometimes, Abnormal skin may be related to these serious diseases:
- Third Degree Burn
Third degree burns, or full-thickness burns, are burns that destroy the skin and might damage the underlying tissue. They are more severe than first or second degree burns and always need immediate medical care.
Doctor's Diagnostic Questions
Your doctor may ask these questions to check for this symptom:
- Do you have any skin problems
- Do you feel any pain or tingling in the affected skin areas?
- When did you first notice your skin problems?
- How often do you experience skin problems?
- How are your skin problems now?
Reviewed By:
Sarita Nori, MD (Dermatology)
Dr. Sarita Nori was drawn to dermatology because of the intersection of science and medicine that is at the heart of dermatology. She feels this is what really allows her to help her patients. “There is a lot of problem-solving in dermatology and I like that,” she explains. “It’s also a profession where you can help people quickly and really make a difference in their lives.” | Some of the typical skin problems that Dr. Nori treats include skin cancers, psoriasis, acne, eczema, rashes, and contact dermatitis. Dr Nori believes in using all possible avenues of treatment, such as biologics, especially in patients with chronic diseases such as eczema and psoriasis. “These medications can work superbly, and they are really life-changing for many patients.” | Dr. Nori feels it’s important for patients to have a good understanding of the disease or condition that is affecting them. “I like to educate my patients on their problem and have them really understand it so they can take the best course of action. Patients always do better when they understand their skin condition, and how to treat it.”
Yukiko Ueda, MD (Dermatology)
Dr. Ueda graduated from the Niigata University School of Medicine and trained at the University of Tokyo Medical School. She is currently a clinical assistant professor at the Department of Dermatology, Jichi Medical University, and holds several posts in the dermatology departments at Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Komagome Hospital, University of Tokyo, and the Medical Center of Japan Red Cross Society.
Content updated on Feb 6, 2025
Following the Medical Content Editorial Policy
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People with similar symptoms also use Ubie's symptom checker to find possible causes
- There are places where skin is in trouble
- Skin plaque with irregular thickening on the lower back
- Skin abnormalities from the wrist to tip of the finger
- Pain or tingling in the affected areas of the skin
- Rashes feel very sensitive and painful if pressed
- Feels and looks like salt granules on scalp
- Skin corn on the middle finger of the foot
- Rash on the face was the first symptom
- Abdominal lines that are red or purple
- Currently, the skin is warm and moist
- Something wrong with skin on my arm
- Unusual skin condition on the neck
- Abnormal skin in epigastric region
- Skin condition of leg is poor
- Skin disorders on the face
See full list
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FAQs
Q.
Can Your Ink Be Erased? The Medical Reality of Tattoo Removal & Next Steps
A.
Tattoo removal is medically possible, with laser treatments as the gold standard, but it takes time, usually 6 to 12 sessions spaced weeks apart, and complete erasure is not guaranteed. Results depend on factors like ink color, skin tone, tattoo age and location, and your immune response. There are several factors to consider, including pain control and aftercare, risks like blistering, pigment changes or rare scarring, eligibility limits, alternatives and costs; for realistic expectations and the right next step, arrange a qualified consultation and see the important details below.
References:
* Karsai, S., Wenzel, N., & Raulin, C. (2018). Laser tattoo removal: A systematic review. *Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 32*(11), 1836–1842.
* Seghers, A. C., Van Raemdonck, E., & De Buyck, E. (2021). Picosecond lasers for tattoo removal: A systematic review and meta-analysis. *Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 20*(3), 803–814.
* Al-Arashi, M., Lim, J., Kussman, S., O'Neill, E. L., Haimovic, A., & Cohen, D. E. (2019). Adverse effects of tattoo removal: A systematic review. *Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 81*(1), 220–229.
* Gautam, R., & Kuldeep, S. (2020). Picosecond laser versus nanosecond laser for tattoo removal: a systematic review. *Lasers in Medical Science, 35*(4), 859–868.
* Bokaie, S., & Bokaie, A. (2022). Factors influencing tattoo removal outcome: A review. *Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 21*(9), 3749–3755.
Q.
Embarrassed by a Hickey? Why Your Neck Is Bruising + Medical Next Steps
A.
A hickey is a suction bruise on the neck that usually fades in 5 to 12 days with normal color changes; easing it typically means a cold compress in the first 24 hours, then warm compresses after 24 to 48 hours and gentle care. There are several factors to consider, including medicines like blood thinners and rare but serious symptoms such as severe neck pain, weakness or numbness, trouble speaking or seeing, severe headache, or worsening swelling that require urgent care; bruises lasting more than 2 weeks or frequent unexplained bruising should be checked by a doctor. For the complete list of causes, safer treatments, and medical next steps, see below.
References:
* Clark ME, Clark PL. Bruising: a review of current knowledge. J Forensic Sci. 2004 Jan;49(1):164-7. PMID: 14738006.
* Khan NA, Kichloo A, Dahiya A, Podar N, Amir M, Wani R, Khan MZ. Cervical artery dissection after hickey: A case report and literature review. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis. 2021 Mar;30(3):105553. PMID: 33257121.
* Cross KA, Cross SS, Bell S, Clark PL. Colourimetric analysis of bruise progression in living subjects. J Forensic Sci. 2004 May;49(3):477-84. PMID: 15152379.
* Lee JMS, Van der Velden MLE. Approach to the patient with purpura and ecchymosis. Am J Med. 2005 Feb;118(2):166-74. PMID: 15694900.
* Kalra BK, Chauhan S, Kumar A, Prakash G, Wanjari A. Treatments for bruising. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2014 Dec 1;7:319-24. PMID: 25484803.
Q.
Is Collagen Powder a Waste? Why Your Skin Still Ages + Medical Next Steps
A.
There are several factors to consider: collagen powder is digested into amino acids used throughout the body, so while it is not a waste and can modestly improve skin hydration and elasticity after 8 to 12 weeks, it will not stop aging because UV exposure, hormonal shifts, glycation, and lifestyle habits continue to break down collagen. For better results, prioritize daily sunscreen, retinoids, vitamin C, adequate protein, sleep, and strength training, and seek medical evaluation for unusual skin changes; see the complete guidance below for who benefits most, safety considerations, and next steps that could change your care.
References:
* Wang, S., Li, S., Liu, S., Shi, W., Zheng, H., Liu, S., ... & Dong, M. (2023). Effect of oral collagen supplementation on skin aging: A systematic review and meta-analysis. *International Journal of Dermatology, 62*(1), 3-12. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36070622/
* Hexsel, D., Zague, V., Schunck, M., Siega, C., Nunes, M. T. L., & Machado, M. D. O. L. (2021). Oral collagen supplementation: A systematic review of dermatological applications. *Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 20*(1), 12-23. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32463283/
* Asserin, J., Lati, E., Shioya, T., & Paller, J. (2015). The effect of oral collagen peptide supplementation on skin moisture and the dermal collagen network: evidence from an ex vivo model and in vivo clinical studies. *Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 14*(4), 291-301. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26362110/
* Krutmann, J., Bouloc, A., Sore, G., Seite, S., & Schalka, M. R. (2017). The skin aging exposome. *Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 137*(12), e1-e6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29154422/
* Poon, F., Kang, S., & Siegfried, G. E. (2015). Mechanisms of skin aging: from molecules to therapies. *Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 456*(1), 160-164. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25449767/
Q.
Sunken Face? Why Your Skin Is Hollowing & Medically Approved Sculptra Steps
A.
Sunken facial hollowing is usually due to aging-related collagen and fat loss, weight change, stress or illness, hormonal shifts, or genetics; red flags like sudden or dramatic thinning, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, asymmetry, pain, or skin discoloration should prompt a medical check. See complete guidance below. Sculptra is an FDA-approved poly-L-lactic acid injectable that stimulates your own collagen to restore volume gradually over 6 to 12 weeks, typically with 2 to 3 sessions and the 5-5-5 post-treatment massage; benefits, risks, who should avoid it, alternatives, and step-by-step next actions are detailed below to guide your decision.
References:
* Smetana, Z., & Aslanian, B. (2018). The Role of Volume Loss in Facial Aging and Its Reversal: A Review. *Dermatologic Surgery*, *44*(S1), S1-S8. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000001602. PMID: 29239843.
* Fitzgerald, R., Vleggaar, D., & Lorenc, Z. P. (2014). Poly-L-lactic acid for facial volume replacement. *Journal of Drugs in Dermatology*, *13*(2), 173-179. PMID: 24509971.
* Vleggaar, D., & Lorenc, Z. P. (2018). Poly-L-lactic acid: A comprehensive review of its use in facial volumization. *Journal of Drugs in Dermatology*, *17*(1), 77-85. PMID: 29320299.
* Goldie, K., & Pezeshki, S. J. (2019). The evolving understanding of the aesthetic implications of facial aging. *Dermatologic Surgery*, *45*(S1), S1-S10. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000001710. PMID: 30747805.
* Butterwick, K., & Lowe, N. J. (2010). Injection techniques for poly-L-lactic acid. *Journal of Drugs in Dermatology*, *9*(11 Suppl), S113-S118. PMID: 21067570.
Q.
That Tingling Fire? Why Your Skin is Flaring & Medically Proven Next Steps
A.
Skin tingling or burning can be an early herpes warning, often hours to two days before blisters, but it can also come from shingles, contact dermatitis, nerve irritation, or other infections. There are several factors to consider; see below to understand more. Medically proven next steps include starting antivirals promptly if herpes is suspected, keeping the area clean and dry, using pain relief, reducing transmission, and seeing a clinician for a first episode or for severe, persistent, spreading, or high risk symptoms. Key triggers, lookalikes, and urgent warning signs are explained below.
References:
* Oaklander AL, et al. Neuropathic itch and pain: common pathophysiology and clinical significance. J Investig Dermatol. 2020 Nov;140(11):2095-2101.e1. PMID: 32677943.
* Czarnowicki T, et al. Atopic Dermatitis: Pathophysiology and Clinical Presentation. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2022 Mar;10(3):684-697. PMID: 35198463.
* Lee YM, et al. Chronic Pruritus: A Review of Current and Emerging Therapies. J Clin Med. 2021 Jun 25;10(13):2787. PMID: 34185563.
* Finnerup NB, et al. Management of localized neuropathic pain: An updated review. Pain. 2020 Dec;161 Suppl 1:S114-S124. PMID: 33261763.
* Reider E, et al. Dermatitis: Atopic, Contact, Stasis, and Seborrheic. Prim Care. 2023 Mar;50(1):129-141. PMID: 36725227.
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