Common Skin Disorders: Treatment Overview

Reviewed by the Office of Clinical Evaluation and Policy (OCEP), Evernorth

There are numerous skin disorders that can have various causes. Some skin disorders can be chronic conditions, while others can be temporary. Symptoms of skin disorders can range in severity from minor to severe, with some symptoms going away on their own and other symptoms requiring medical treatment. Common skin conditions include acne, hives, atopic dermatitis (eczema), rosacea, psoriasis, and vitiligo.

Various treatments are available to help manage skin disorders. Depending on the condition being treated, certain treatments may be more appropriate than others. Treatments are available in different preparations, including ointments, creams, lotions, solutions and oral tablets or capsules.

Continue reading for an overview of the most common drug classes used to treat skin disorders.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are a common class of drugs used to relieve inflammation on the skin. In reducing inflammation, corticosteroids can help treat itching, swelling, and redness. Corticosteroids can be useful for treating allergic reactions on the skin and other inflammatory skin disorders, such as eczema. Examples of corticosteroids include hydrocortisone, betamethasone, and triamcinolone.

Antibiotics

Skin disorders caused by bacteria may be treated with oral or topical antibiotics. Treating the underlying infection of a skin disorder can help relieve symptoms. Certain antibiotics can be used to treat certain skin conditions, such as acne, rosacea, and impetigo. Examples of antibiotics include clindamycin, erythromycin, and metronidazole.

Antifungals

Antifungals can help treat fungal infections of the skin, scalp, and nails. For example, antifungals can help treat conditions such as athlete’s foot and ringworm. In some cases, antifungals may be combined with other topical medications, such as corticosteroids. Examples of antifungals include ketoconazole, terbinafine, and miconazole.

Antivirals

Antivirals are medications used to treat skin disorders caused by viruses, such as shingles and herpes. They may be applied topically or taken orally to treat viral infections. Examples of antiviral drugs include acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines may be included in topical medications or taken orally to treat allergic skin disorders. Oral antihistamines may be preferred over topical antihistamines to relieve itching due to the possibility of an allergic reaction, which may require immediate medical treatment. Examples of antihistamines include Zonalon® (doxepin) and diphenhydramine.

Non-steroidal medications

Certain medications, including Eucrisa® (crisaborole), tacrolimus, and pimecrolimus can be used to treat inflammation caused by atopic dermatitis (eczema). Because they do not cause skin thinning like corticosteroids, these treatments may be preferred for long-term use.

Salicylic acid

Salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent that helps soften the outer layer of the skin and loosen scales. Salicylic acid may be used to treat acne, ichthyoses, and psoriasis.

Retinoids

Retinoids are common medications used to treat certain skin disorders, such as acne and psoriasis. These medications are derived from vitamin A and work to speed up skin cell turnover. Examples of retinoids include adapalene, tretinoin, and tazarotene.

Benzoyl peroxide

For mild to moderate acne, benzoyl peroxide may be used. It works in several ways, such as removing dead skin cells, removing excess oil, and fighting the bacteria on the skin.

Immunosuppressants

Immunosuppressants are sometimes prescribed to treat moderate to severe cases of eczema and psoriasis. They work by reducing the activity of the immune system to decrease inflammation. Examples of immunosuppressants include methotrexate and cyclosporine.

Biologics

Biologics are relatively new treatments used to treat psoriasis and other skin disorders. These medications can help block certain immune processes that lead to inflammation. Examples of biologics include Remicade® (infliximab), Humira® (adalimumab), and Enbrel® (etanercept).

Other treatments for skin disorders

There may be other treatments other than those listed to help manage skin disorders. Consult a healthcare provider for the best treatment option for you. In addition to medications, healthy skincare habits may be recommended, such as cleansing, protecting, and moisturizing the affected area.

Sources:

• https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/skin-disorders/treatment-of-skin-disorders/treatment-of-skin-disorders
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532940/
• https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?bookid=392&sectionid=41138954#56097159