Skin Basics

Skin problems can be embarrassing and, when it’s not obvious how serious they are, worrying too.

This NHS Choices Skin Problems Slideshow can help you to identify yours.

If you’re concerned see a GP, especially if you're notice a mole changing. If you’re embarrassed about your skin, better to show it once to the doctor than time and again to everyone else.

Everyday skin conditions like warts, acne, eczema and psoriasis can be treated as can viruses and infections that appear as skin rashes such as chicken pox or measles.

If it is something more serious such as skin cancer, early intervention can make all the difference. More women than men are diagnosed with melanoma – the most serious form of skin cancer – but more men die from it. In other words, some men are dying because by the time they go to the GP, it’s too late. Why risk it?

• More on skin on malehealth
• How to spot a dodgy mole
• More on NHS Choices: common skin problems and general skin care advice.
• We also like the skin section on WebMD, the site www.embarrassingproblems.com and the website linked to the Channel 4 TV programme Embarrassing Bodies.

This page was produced by malehealth, the Men's Health Forum's health information website for men of all ages, for the men's health app Bloke Noises. Download the app here.