Skin Inflammation: Causes, Treatments, and What You Can Do

When your skin turns red, itches, swells, or feels hot, you’re dealing with skin inflammation, a common immune response to irritation, infection, or autoimmune triggers. Also known as dermatitis, it’s not just a nuisance—it’s your body’s signal that something’s off. This isn’t just about a rash. Skin inflammation can be caused by fungal infections like jock itch, a type of tinea cruris that spreads easily and thrives in warm, moist areas, or by long-term conditions like atrophic gastroenteritis, a chronic gut issue that can lead to nutrient deficiencies and trigger skin reactions. Even something as specific as methoxsalen, a photosensitizing agent used in PUVA therapy for psoriasis and eczema, shows how deeply skin health ties into systemic treatments.

Some forms of skin inflammation are short-term and respond to simple care—like switching out harsh soaps or using an antifungal cream. Others, like psoriasis or eczema, are chronic and need ongoing management. You might not realize that your gut health, hormone balance, or even the medications you take (like ranitidine or sertraline) can worsen skin flare-ups. That’s why treating skin inflammation isn’t just about creams—it’s about looking at the whole picture. If you’ve tried over-the-counter options and nothing sticks, it’s not you. It’s likely that the root cause hasn’t been addressed.

What you’ll find below isn’t a list of random articles. It’s a focused collection of real-world guidance on what actually works. From how PUVA therapy uses methoxsalen to treat stubborn skin conditions, to how fungal infections like jock itch spread and how to stop them, to how systemic issues like gut inflammation can show up on your skin—each post cuts through the noise. You’ll see direct comparisons, practical tips, and clear explanations without the fluff. No guesswork. Just what you need to understand your skin and take control.