Skin Disorders

Introduction: Why you should care about your skin?

Your skin is the largest organ of your body. It protects you from infections, helps regulate body temperature, and gives you your unique appearance. But just like any other part of the body, your skin can develop problems. In Africa, where the sun is strong and many people work outdoors, skin disorders are common.

According to the world health organization (WHO), skin diseases are among the top ten reasons people visit hospitals in Africa. In some parts of the continent, more than 50% of children suffer from infectious skin conditions like ringworm or scabies. Some conditions, like eczema or vitiligo, can be lifelong, while others, like measles or impetigo, can spread from person to person if not treated early.

This guide will help you understand common skin disorders, how to recognize them, and what you can do to prevent them.

How common are skin disorders in Africa?

Skin problems affect millions of people across Africa. Some of the most common ones include:

• Acne: Affects up to 80% of young people in Africa, often leaving dark scars on darker skin.
• Eczema (Ekoro): Affects over 10% of children in some African countries, causing itchy, scaly skin.
• Fungal infections: Like ringworm – common due to the hot and humid climate.
• Skin cancer: Increasing due to prolonged sun exposure, even for people with darker skin tones.
• Albinism-related skin conditions: People with albinism are more prone to skin cancer due to lack of melanin (skin pigment).

Common skin disorders and their symptoms?

Acne

• Found mostly on the face, neck, shoulders, chest, and back.
• Causes pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and painful cysts.
• Can leave dark marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) on darker skin.

Cold Sores

• Red, painful blisters near the mouth or lips.
• Caused by a virus (Herpes Simplex Type 1) and spreads through close contact.
• May be accompanied by mild flu-like symptoms.

Blisters (‘Ponppo’)

• Small fluid-filled bubbles on the skin.
• Can be caused by burns, friction, or infections.

Hives

• Itchy, swollen, red, or darker-colored welts on the skin.
• Often caused by allergies to food, insect bites, or medicines.

Eczema (‘Ekoro’)

• Dry, itchy, scaly skin that may appear red on lighter skin or brown/gray on darker skin.
• More common in children and worsens with harsh soaps and extreme weather.

Psoriasis

• Thick, scaly patches on the scalp, elbows, knees, or lower back.
• Appears purplish or dark brown on darker skin.

Fungal Infections (Ringworm)

• Circular, scaly rash with a raised border.
• Common in children and spreads through shared towels, combs, and clothes.

Vitiligo

• Patches of skin losing their color.
• More noticeable in people with dark skin.
• Not contagious but can cause stigma.

Skin Cancer

• Can appear as a wound that doesn’t heal, a scaly patch, or a new growth.
• People with albinism are at high risk.
• Wearing sunscreen and covering up can help prevent it.

Measles

• Starts with fever, cough, and red, watery eyes.
• Causes a rash that spreads from the face to the rest of the body.
• Can be prevented with vaccination.

How to prevent skin disorders?

While some skin conditions are genetic, you can take steps to prevent many of them:

• Keep your skin clean: Bathe daily and wash your face with mild soap.
• Moisturize: Use shea butter or natural oils to prevent dryness.
• Avoid sharing personal items: Do not share towels, razors, or makeup.
• Protect yourself from the sun: Wear hats and apply sunscreen if working outdoors.
• Eat well: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables keeps skin healthy.
• Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.
• Get vaccinated against measles and other preventable diseases.

When to see a doctor?

See a healthcare professional if you experience:

• Skin changes that don’t heal after a few weeks.
• Painful or rapidly spreading skin rashes.
• Persistent itching or swelling.
• Wounds that ooze pus or get worse over time.
• New moles or spots that change in size, shape, or color.