Ringworm of the scalp, which is called tinea capitis, can cause scaly, red 

A number of skin conditions can last throughout life. Some may begin in childhood and continue into adulthood. In some cases, the symptoms are not always present but flare up at certain times.

Seborrheic dermatitis

In babies, doctors commonly refer to seborrheic dermatitis as “cradle cap.” Greasy, scaly patches form on the baby’s skin, most commonly on their scalp.

In adults, seborrheic dermatitis may appear anywhere on the body. It is prone to flare up and disappear throughout life. The affected skin may appear reddish, swollen, and greasy. And a white or yellow crust may appear on the surface of the skin.
Also, people with darker skin may notice that the scaling has a flower-like shape. Some areas of the affected skin may appear darker or lighter than usual.

Many treatments can help ease the symptoms. Treating seborrheic dermatitis may involve using special shampoo and applying medicated cream to the affected skin.

Moles

Moles are growths that form when skin cells bunch together with surrounding tissue. Most are called “common moles” and cause no harm.

Many people have moles, and a person may have as many as about 40 moles throughout their body.

Check moles regularly for any changes in their appearance, such as an increase in size or change in color. Anyone who notices changes should let their doctor know so that they can screen for skin cancer.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder. Symptoms typically include itchy patches of skin with an unusual appearance.

Areas of skin affected by psoriasis can vary in size and severity. In a person with white skin, the affected areas are typically red or pink with white scales. African Americans may have patches that are violet, gray, or dark brown. They may be more difficult to see.

Eczema

Eczema usually develops early in childhood, but it can arise in adulthood. There are several types, including atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis.

Eczema may cause rashes on or around the face, scalp, elbows, neck, wrists, ankles, or legs. The rashes are very itchy and may become bumpy, change color, or thicken. In adults, the rashes may cover more of the body, leading to widespread dry, itchy areas.

The symptoms may be less noticeable in people with darker skin, compared with those who have lighter skin. However, in People of Color, eczema can cause discoloration, making the affected areas lighter or darker. This may last, even after the eczema symptoms are no longer present. There is no known cure for eczema. It may resolve on its own, but medications that relieve the symptoms are available.

Vitiligo

Vitiligo causes a loss of pigmentation. There are a few types, but vitiligo generally causes white patches to appear on the skin, usually in areas exposed to sunlight. People with vitiligo often lose their hair color early, as well.

Some people find that more areas of whiteness appear gradually, over many years. Since this condition affects pigmentation, it is typically more noticeable in people with dark or tanned skin.

There is currently no cure for vitiligo, but a range of treatments are available, including light therapy and topical medicines. A person also has surgical options, and some alternative therapies may help, though scientists need to look further into their effectiveness.

Candidiasis

The overgrowth of the Candida albicans fungus causes this issue, and when it affects the skin, it is called cutaneous Candidiasis or cutaneous Moniliasis.

The areas may be irritated and have lesions or small pustules. Candidiasis typically develops in skin folds, such as the armpit or around the groin. Sometimes, it affects the face.

People can usually prevent Candidiasis by boosting their skin hygiene and avoiding the overuse of antibiotics. To treat it, doctors may prescribe antifungal and corticosteroid creams.

Cellulitis

When bacteria infect skin layers and tissue below the skin, cellulitis is the likely diagnosis. Skin affected by cellulitis may be red, swollen, and tender and feel warm to the touch.

You may have a cellulitis infection anywhere on the skin. However, it typically appears on one lower leg in adults and on the face or neck in children.

Dry Skin

Dry skin is the result of your skin losing a lot of water. A person may experience dry skin because of environmental factors, like low humidity or spending time exposed to high heat. You might notice flaky, rough skin or skin that cracks or itches. Some people have dry skin that’s painful, stinging, burning, or peeling.

Ringworm

Ringworm is a fungal skin infection that can be itchy. Ringworm appears as a round patch with a clear center on many areas of the skin. 27 Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm.

Ringworm of the scalp, which is called tinea capitis, can cause scaly, red bald spots. Ringworm of the feet, known as athlete’s foot, causes peeling, cracking, and possibly blisters. When ringworm affects the groin, it’s called jock itch.