Category: Uncategorized

Skin Tags: What They Are, Why They Appear, and When to Have Them Removed

You have noticed a small, soft, flesh-colored growth hanging off your skin. Maybe it is on your neck, tucked into a fold under your arm, or sitting along your eyelid. It does not hurt unless something catches on it, like a necklace or a shirt collar. You have probably wondered whether it is something to worry about, whether it will keep growing, and whether you should leave it alone or have it taken off.

That growth is almost certainly a skin tag, and you are far from alone. Skin tags are one of the most common benign skin growths in adults, affecting an estimated 25 percent of the population. They are harmless, but they can be annoying, and for many people they are a source of self-consciousness, especially when they appear in visible areas like the neck or face.

What Are Skin Tags?

Skin tags, known medically as acrochordons, are small, benign growths made up of loose collagen fibers and blood vessels surrounded by skin. They are typically flesh-colored or slightly darker, soft to the touch, and attached to the skin by a thin stalk called a peduncle. Most skin tags are small, ranging from one to five millimeters, though some can grow larger over time.

Skin tags are small, soft, benign growths that hang from the skin by a thin stalk called a peduncle.

They tend to develop in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing. The neck, underarms, groin folds, under the breasts, and around the eyelids are the most common locations. Skin tags are not contagious, they are not caused by a virus, and they do not have the potential to become cancerous.

Why Do Skin Tags Form?

The exact mechanism is not entirely understood, but friction is considered the primary driver. Anywhere skin repeatedly rubs against itself or against clothing creates the conditions for skin tags to develop. That is why they are so common in skin folds and creases.

The neck is one of the most common locations for skin tags, and necklaces and collars can catch on them and cause irritation.

Several factors increase the likelihood of developing skin tags. Age is one of the biggest. Skin tags become more common after 40 and continue to increase with age. Weight is another factor, as increased body surface area creates more friction points. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can trigger skin tag development, which is why many women notice new skin tags during the second and third trimesters. Genetics also play a role. If your parents developed skin tags, you are more likely to develop them as well.

There is also a noted association between skin tags and insulin resistance. Research has shown that people with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes are more likely to develop multiple skin tags, particularly around the neck and underarms. While skin tags alone are not a diagnostic indicator, a dermatologist may mention the connection if a patient presents with a large number of new growths.

Should You Remove Skin Tags?

Skin tags do not need to be removed for medical reasons. They are benign, and leaving them alone is a perfectly reasonable choice. However, there are several legitimate reasons patients choose to have them removed.

Irritation is the most common reason. A skin tag on the neck that catches on necklaces or collars, one in the underarm that snags on clothing, or one near the eyelid that interferes with vision or feels uncomfortable can be persistently annoying. Some skin tags become twisted or inflamed, which can cause pain and occasionally lead to a small amount of bleeding.

Cosmetic concern is another valid reason. Skin tags in visible areas like the neck, face, or chest can affect how a person feels about their appearance, and removing them is a straightforward process that typically takes just a few minutes.

What you should not do is attempt to remove skin tags at home. Cutting, tying off, or using over-the-counter freezing products carries a risk of infection, scarring, and incomplete removal. Some growths that look like skin tags may actually be something else, including warts, moles, or other lesions that require different treatment. A dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and remove the growth safely.

How Dermatologists Remove Skin Tags

Skin tag removal is one of the most common minor procedures in medical dermatology. There are several methods a dermatologist may use, depending on the size and location of the growth.

Snip excision involves using sterile surgical scissors to cut the skin tag off at its base. It is quick, precise, and typically requires no anesthesia for very small tags. Larger tags may be numbed with a small injection of local anesthetic before removal.

Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin tag, which causes it to fall off within a few days. This method is commonly used for smaller tags and is well tolerated by most patients.

Electrodesiccation uses a small electrical current to burn the skin tag off at its base. It is effective for tags of various sizes and cauterizes the area during removal, which minimizes bleeding.

Regardless of the method, the procedure is typically done in a single office visit, requires no downtime, and heals within a week or two. If a growth looks unusual or if there is any question about the diagnosis, the dermatologist may send the tissue to a lab for evaluation, but this is uncommon with straightforward skin tags.

When to See a Dermatologist About a Skin Growth

If you have a growth that is changing in color, shape, or size, if it bleeds without being caught on something, if it is firm rather than soft, or if you are simply unsure what it is, schedule an appointment. Not every skin growth is a skin tag, and a dermatologist can tell the difference. Even if the growth turns out to be a harmless skin tag, having it evaluated gives you peace of mind and the option to have it removed safely if it is bothering you.

If a skin growth is changing in color, shape, or size, or if you are unsure what it is, a dermatologist can evaluate it and discuss removal options.

Schedule an Appointment in Kimball

Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic has been providing expert dermatology care across the Tennessee Valley since 1973. If skin tags or other growths are bothering you, our team at the Kimball office can evaluate them and discuss your options.

Kimball Office

400 Dixie Lee Center Rd, Suite C, Kimball, TN 37347

Phone: 423-815-9975

Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (CST)

Follow us! @chattskinandcancer

October 8, 2026
Keratosis Pilaris: What Those Rough Bumps on Your Arms Really Are

You have had them for as long as you can remember. Small, rough bumps on the backs of your upper arms that feel like sandpaper when you run your hand over them. Maybe they show up on your thighs too, or your cheeks. They do not hurt. They are not infected. But they never fully go away, and every fall, when the air dries out and the temperature drops, they get worse.

If that description sounds familiar, there is a good chance you are dealing with keratosis pilaris. It is one of the most common skin conditions in the world, affecting roughly 40 percent of adults, and despite how widespread it is, most people have never heard the name. They just know they have bumpy skin that no amount of scrubbing or lotion seems to fix.

What Is Keratosis Pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris, sometimes called KP or referred to informally as chicken skin, is a harmless condition in which small plugs of dead skin cells and keratin build up around hair follicles. Keratin is a protein that makes up the outer layer of your skin. In keratosis pilaris, the body produces slightly more keratin than it needs, and that excess keratin forms tiny plugs that block the openings of hair follicles. The result is a rough, bumpy texture that can be flesh-colored, white, red, or slightly pink.

The condition most commonly appears on the backs of the upper arms, the fronts of the thighs, the buttocks, and sometimes the cheeks, especially in children. It is not contagious. It is not caused by poor hygiene. And while it can be frustrating cosmetically, keratosis pilaris is not a sign of any underlying health problem.

KP tends to run in families. If one or both of your parents had it, your chances of developing it are significantly higher. It is also more common in people who have eczema, asthma, or seasonal allergies, a connection that suggests a shared tendency toward a reactive or easily irritated skin barrier.

Why Keratosis Pilaris Gets Worse in Fall and Winter

If you have noticed that your KP is more visible and more textured during the colder months, that is not a coincidence. Keratosis pilaris is directly affected by environmental moisture levels. When the air is humid, the skin stays more hydrated, keratin plugs soften, and the bumps flatten out. That is why many people with KP notice improvement during the summer.

In fall and winter, the opposite happens. Outdoor humidity drops, indoor heating dries the air further, and the skin loses moisture faster than it can be replaced. The keratin plugs harden, the bumps become more pronounced, and the surrounding skin can become red and irritated. Hot showers, which people tend to take more frequently in cold weather, make it worse by stripping the skin of its natural oils.

Heavier clothing also plays a role. Long sleeves and pants create friction against the affected areas, which can irritate the follicles and make the bumps more inflamed.

How to Treat Keratosis Pilaris

There is no permanent cure for keratosis pilaris, but it is very manageable with the right routine. The goal of treatment is to soften the keratin plugs, keep the skin hydrated, and reduce the rough texture.

Exfoliating acids are the most effective topical approach. Products containing alpha hydroxy acids like lactic acid or glycolic acid, or beta hydroxy acids like salicylic acid, work by dissolving the keratin plugs and promoting smoother cell turnover. These are available in both over-the-counter and prescription strengths. Applying them consistently, especially during the fall and winter months, can make a significant difference in both the texture and appearance of the skin.

Harsh physical scrubbing can actually worsen keratosis pilaris — gentle chemical exfoliation is more effective for smoothing rough, bumpy skin.

Moisturizing is equally important. A thick, fragrance-free moisturizer applied immediately after bathing helps lock in hydration and prevent the keratin plugs from hardening. Creams and ointments work better than lotions for keratosis pilaris because they create a stronger moisture barrier. Some dermatologists recommend moisturizers that contain urea, which has both hydrating and mildly exfoliating properties.

A person applying cream to their upper arm from a jar, representing the moisturizing step in a keratosis pilaris treatment routine recommended by dermatologists at Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic in Cleveland, TN.

Avoiding harsh physical scrubs is important. It is tempting to try to scrub the bumps away with a loofah or exfoliating brush, but aggressive scrubbing can actually irritate the skin and make keratosis pilaris worse. Gentle chemical exfoliation is far more effective than physical abrasion.

For patients who also have redness or inflammation around the bumps, a dermatologist may prescribe a mild topical corticosteroid or a topical retinoid to calm the irritation and promote smoother skin. In some cases, in-office treatments like microdermabrasion or chemical peels can help accelerate improvement.

Keratosis Pilaris in Children and Teens

Keratosis pilaris is extremely common in children and adolescents. It often first appears in early childhood, and the cheeks are a common location in younger kids, sometimes mistaken for a persistent rash. In teenagers, it frequently shows up on the upper arms and thighs and can become a source of self-consciousness, particularly during warm-weather months when more skin is exposed.

The good news is that keratosis pilaris often improves naturally with age. Many adults who had significant KP as teenagers find that it gradually becomes less noticeable over time. In the meantime, the same gentle exfoliation and moisturizing strategies work well for children and teens, and a pediatric dermatologist can recommend age-appropriate products if over-the-counter options are not enough.

When to See a Dermatologist About Keratosis Pilaris

Most cases of keratosis pilaris can be managed at home with the right products and routine. However, if the bumps are red, inflamed, or spreading, if over-the-counter exfoliants and moisturizers are not making a noticeable difference after several weeks of consistent use, or if you are unsure whether what you are seeing is actually KP, it is worth scheduling an appointment. Conditions like eczema, folliculitis, and certain types of medical dermatology concerns can look similar to keratosis pilaris, and a dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and recommend the most effective treatment.

Schedule an Appointment in Cleveland

Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic has been providing expert dermatology care across the Tennessee Valley since 1973. If keratosis pilaris or other skin concerns are affecting your comfort or confidence, our board-certified dermatologists at the Cleveland office can help.

Cleveland Office

3891 Adkisson Drive, Cleveland, TN 37312

Phone: 423-479-8648

Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM (EST)

Follow us! @chattskinandcancer

October 8, 2026
Psoriasis in Cold Weather: Why Flares Get Worse and How to Manage Them

October is Psoriasis Awareness Month, and if you are one of the roughly eight million Americans living with psoriasis, you probably already know what is coming. The temperatures drop, the air dries out, and the patches that may have been manageable all summer start spreading, thickening, and itching in ways that disrupt your sleep, your comfort, and your confidence.

Psoriasis in cold weather is not just a minor inconvenience. For many patients, fall and winter are the hardest months of the year. The combination of dry outdoor air, indoor heating, reduced sunlight, and heavier clothing creates a perfect storm for flares. Understanding why this happens and what you can do about it puts you in a much better position to get through the season with your skin under control.

Why Psoriasis Gets Worse in Cold Weather

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to multiply far faster than normal. Instead of shedding gradually over the course of a month, skin cells pile up on the surface in a matter of days, forming the thick, red, scaly patches most people associate with the condition. That process does not stop when the weather changes, but cold weather introduces several factors that make it worse.

The shift from warm to cold weather brings lower humidity, shorter days, and drier air — all of which can worsen psoriasis symptoms.

The most significant factor is moisture loss. Cold air holds less humidity than warm air, and when you step inside, forced-air heating systems strip even more moisture from the environment. Your skin loses water faster than it can replenish it, and the barrier that normally protects your skin becomes compromised. For someone with psoriasis, a weakened skin barrier means more irritation, more cracking, and more opportunities for flares to take hold.

Reduced sunlight plays a role as well. Natural ultraviolet light has a mild immunosuppressive effect on the skin, which is why many psoriasis patients notice improvement during the summer months. As the days get shorter, that natural benefit decreases. The skin sees less UV exposure, and for some patients, that shift alone is enough to trigger a flare.

Stress also tends to climb during the fall and winter. Shorter days, holiday pressures, and disrupted routines can elevate cortisol levels, and stress is one of the most well-documented triggers for psoriasis flares. The relationship between stress and psoriasis runs in both directions. Stress triggers flares, and visible flares increase stress, which can create a cycle that is difficult to break without intervention.

Common Cold Weather Psoriasis Triggers

Beyond the general shift in climate, there are specific triggers that tend to show up during fall and winter. Hot showers are one of the most common. When your skin feels tight and itchy from the cold, a long, hot shower feels like relief, but it actually strips the natural oils from your skin and can make psoriasis patches worse within hours. Lukewarm water and shorter showers are a better approach, even when the weather makes that feel counterintuitive.

Heavy clothing and layering can also contribute to flares. Wool, synthetic fabrics, and tight-fitting layers create friction against the skin. For someone with psoriasis, that friction can trigger what dermatologists call the Koebner phenomenon, where new plaques develop at sites of skin trauma or irritation. Choosing soft, breathable fabrics and wearing loose base layers can help reduce this risk.

Heavy fabrics like wool create friction against the skin, which can trigger new psoriasis plaques through a process called the Koebner phenomenon.

Illness and infections are another seasonal trigger. Colds, flu, and strep throat are more common during fall and winter, and infections can provoke an immune response that worsens psoriasis. Strep throat in particular is strongly associated with guttate psoriasis, a type that appears as small, drop-shaped lesions across the torso and limbs. Staying current on vaccinations and practicing good hand hygiene are practical ways to lower that risk.

Alcohol consumption tends to increase during the holiday season as well, and alcohol is a known psoriasis trigger for many patients. It can interfere with certain psoriasis medications, increase inflammation, and contribute to dehydration, all of which work against symptom control.

How to Manage Psoriasis Through Fall and Winter

The foundation of cold weather psoriasis management is consistent moisturizing. Applying a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer immediately after bathing, while the skin is still slightly damp, helps lock in hydration and supports the skin barrier. Ointment-based moisturizers tend to be more effective than lotions during winter because they create a stronger protective layer. Moisturizing at least twice a day, and more often on exposed areas like the hands and face, can make a noticeable difference.

Using a humidifier indoors is another simple but effective strategy. Keeping indoor humidity between 40 and 60 percent helps counteract the drying effects of heating systems. A humidifier in the bedroom, where you spend several consecutive hours, is a good starting point.

Using a humidifier indoors helps counteract the dry air from heating systems that can trigger psoriasis flares during fall and winter.

Sticking with your treatment plan through the winter months is critical. It is tempting to ease up on topical treatments or skip appointments when symptoms seem manageable, but psoriasis is a condition that benefits from consistent management. If your current treatment is not keeping flares under control as the weather changes, that is a signal to talk with your dermatologist rather than wait it out.

For patients whose psoriasis does not respond well to topical treatments alone, phototherapy is an option worth considering. Phototherapy uses controlled, medical-grade narrowband UVB light to slow skin cell growth and reduce inflammation. It is particularly useful during the fall and winter months when natural sunlight exposure decreases. Sessions are short, typically just a few minutes, and most patients come in two to three times per week.

When to See a Dermatologist About Psoriasis

If your psoriasis is getting worse with the season change, spreading to new areas, cracking and bleeding, or affecting your daily life in ways it was not a few months ago, it is time to schedule an appointment. A board-certified dermatologist can evaluate your current treatment plan, adjust medications if needed, and discuss options like phototherapy or systemic treatments that target the immune response driving your flares.

Psoriasis is a condition that benefits from proactive management, not reactive treatment. The earlier you address a seasonal shift in symptoms, the more options you have and the faster you can get things back under control.

Schedule an Appointment in Chattanooga

Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic has been providing expert medical dermatology care to patients across the Tennessee Valley since 1973. If psoriasis flares are making this season difficult, our board-certified dermatologists can help you find a management plan that works.

Chattanooga Office

6061 Shallowford Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421

Phone: 423-899-2700

Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM (EST)

Follow us! @chattskinandcancer

October 8, 2026
Hair Loss: 5 Hidden Causes and When to See a Dermatologist

Hair loss is one of those concerns people tend to watch quietly for weeks or months before doing anything about it. You notice more strands in the shower drain. Your ponytail feels thinner. A part that used to be narrow is getting wider. You search for answers online and get buried in conflicting advice about supplements, shampoos, and stress. The reality is that hair loss has a wide range of causes, and most of them are not going to respond to a new shampoo. Some are temporary and fully reversible. Others are progressive and need early intervention to prevent permanent thinning. A board-certified dermatologist is the fastest way to figure out which category yours falls into.

Why Hair Loss Happens More Than People Realize

Losing 50 to 100 hairs a day is normal. Your hair goes through growth cycles, and shedding is a natural part of that process. The problem starts when more hair is falling out than growing back in, or when the hair that does grow back comes in thinner and weaker than before. Hair loss affects men and women of all ages, and it is far more common in women than most people assume. In areas like Marion County, the Sequatchie Valley, Jasper, and South Pittsburg, patients often wait until the thinning is visible to others before seeking help. By then, the underlying cause has usually been active for months. The earlier you address hair loss, the more options you have.

5 Hidden Causes of Hair Loss

1. Telogen effluvium from stress or illness.

This is one of the most common forms of temporary hair loss, and it often catches people off guard because the shedding starts two to three months after the triggering event. A major illness, surgery, childbirth, significant weight loss, or prolonged emotional stress can push a large number of hair follicles into the resting phase at the same time. When those follicles release their hairs simultaneously, the result is alarming but usually reversible. The hair typically regrows on its own once the trigger resolves, but a dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes.

2. Thyroid imbalances.

Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause hair loss that is diffuse and gradual, meaning you lose volume evenly rather than in patches. Because thyroid-related hair loss develops slowly, it is easy to dismiss as normal aging. A simple blood test can identify a thyroid issue, and once the thyroid is properly managed, hair growth usually resumes. If your hair loss is accompanied by fatigue, weight changes, or sensitivity to temperature, mention these symptoms to your dermatologist.

3. Nutritional deficiencies.

Crash diets and poor nutrition are among the most underdiagnosed causes of hair loss — iron, vitamin D, and protein all play a role.

Iron deficiency is one of the most underdiagnosed causes of hair loss, particularly in women. Low ferritin levels, even when they fall within the technical normal range, can contribute to thinning. Vitamin D deficiency, zinc deficiency, and protein insufficiency can also affect hair growth. Crash diets and restrictive eating patterns are common triggers. A medical dermatology workup can include blood tests to check for these deficiencies so treatment addresses the root cause rather than just the symptom.

4. Hormonal changes.

Androgenetic alopecia, the most common form of progressive hair loss, is driven by hormones and genetics. In men, it typically presents as a receding hairline and crown thinning. In women, it usually appears as a widening part and overall volume loss without a receding hairline. Hormonal shifts during menopause, after stopping birth control, or related to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also trigger or accelerate hair loss. These patterns are treatable, especially when caught early, but they require a correct diagnosis first.

5. Scalp conditions.

Thinning at the temples or a widening part are early signs of hair loss that a dermatologist can evaluate before further damage occurs.

An unhealthy scalp can prevent healthy hair growth, and many people do not realize their hair loss is connected to a treatable scalp issue. Seborrheic dermatitis, scalp psoriasis, fungal infections, and folliculitis can all cause inflammation around the hair follicle that disrupts the growth cycle. If your hair loss is accompanied by itching, flaking, redness, or tenderness on the scalp, the scalp condition needs treatment before the hair loss can improve.

What a Dermatologist Can Do About Hair Loss

A dermatologist evaluates hair loss differently than a primary care doctor. The exam typically includes a close inspection of the scalp, an assessment of the pattern and distribution of thinning, and sometimes a pull test or scalp biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Blood work may be ordered to check for thyroid issues, iron levels, hormonal imbalances, or other systemic causes. Treatment depends entirely on the diagnosis: topical medications like minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia, anti-inflammatory treatments for scalp conditions, nutritional supplementation for deficiencies, or referral for hormonal management when appropriate. The key is getting the right diagnosis, because treating hair loss without knowing the cause wastes time and can allow reversible conditions to become permanent.

When to See a Dermatologist About Hair Loss

Finding more hair than usual in your brush or shower drain is often the first sign that something beyond normal shedding is going on.

If you are noticing more shedding than usual, a widening part, thinning at the temples or crown, bald patches, or scalp irritation alongside hair loss, schedule an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist. The earlier hair loss is evaluated, the better the outcome. Many forms of hair loss are treatable or reversible when caught before significant follicle damage occurs. Waiting until the thinning is obvious to everyone around you means the condition has been progressing unchecked for months, and recovery takes longer.

Get Answers About Hair Loss in Kimball, TN

The board-certified dermatologists at Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic in Kimball treat all types of hair loss in men and women. Whether you are dealing with sudden shedding, gradual thinning, or scalp symptoms that seem connected, our team can evaluate the cause and recommend a treatment plan that fits your situation.

Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic — Kimball

400 Dixie Lee Center Road, Suite C, Kimball, TN 37347

Phone: 423-815-9975

Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (CST). First Friday of each month, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM (CST).

Schedule an appointment or call our Kimball office today.

Follow us! @chattskinandcancer

September 17, 2026
Eczema in Fall: 5 Triggers That Make Flares Worse

Eczema in fall catches a lot of patients off guard. Summer may have been manageable, maybe even a good season for your skin. The humidity helped. The warmth kept things calm. Then September hits, the air dries out, and within a couple of weeks the itching is back, the patches are spreading, and you are right back where you started. If this cycle sounds familiar, you are not imagining it. The seasonal shift from summer to fall is one of the most predictable triggers for eczema flares, and understanding exactly why it happens is the first step toward breaking the pattern.

Why Eczema in Fall Is So Common

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic condition rooted in a compromised skin barrier. When the barrier is intact, it holds moisture in and keeps irritants out. When it is damaged, which is the baseline state for eczema-prone skin, moisture escapes and environmental triggers get through more easily. Fall accelerates this process. Outdoor humidity drops, indoor heating starts pulling moisture from the air, and the skin barrier that was barely holding on during summer begins to fail. The result is dryness, cracking, redness, and the intense itching that defines an eczema flare. In the Bradley County and Cleveland area, the transition can happen quickly, sometimes within a single week of cooler, drier weather moving in.

5 Eczema in Fall Triggers You Should Know

1. Dropping humidity and indoor heating.

This is the most significant trigger for eczema in fall. As outdoor humidity decreases and furnaces kick on, the moisture content in the air inside your home can plummet below 30 percent. That dry air pulls water directly from your skin, weakening the barrier and setting the stage for flares. A humidifier in the bedroom set between 40 and 50 percent can make a measurable difference, especially overnight when the skin is repairing itself.

2. Hot showers and baths.

Hot showers feel great when the weather cools down, but they strip natural oils and are one of the most common triggers for eczema in fall.

When the weather cools, most people shift to hotter, longer showers. This is one of the worst things you can do for eczema-prone skin. Hot water strips the natural oils that form the outer layer of the skin barrier, accelerating moisture loss. Keep showers under 10 minutes and use lukewarm water. Apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer within two minutes of drying off to lock in as much hydration as possible.

3. Wool, flannel, and heavier fabrics.

Wool and rough fabrics are among the most common clothing-related triggers for eczema in fall — a soft cotton base layer helps.

Fall wardrobes mean heavier layers, and many of those fabrics are eczema triggers. Wool is one of the most common irritants for eczema-prone skin. Rough textures, synthetic blends, and even some fleece materials can create friction and trap heat against the skin, both of which aggravate flares. Wear soft cotton or silk as a base layer against your skin, even underneath heavier clothing.

4. Ragweed and fall allergens.

Ragweed season in Southeast Tennessee runs from late August through October, overlapping directly with the start of eczema in fall season.

In Southeast Tennessee, ragweed season runs from late August through October, and it overlaps directly with the start of eczema in fall season. For patients whose eczema has an allergic component, airborne pollen can trigger or intensify flares even without direct skin contact. If your eczema consistently worsens during ragweed season, your dermatologist may recommend allergy testing or adjust your treatment plan to account for the overlap.

5. Stress from the back-to-routine transition.

September brings a surge in routine changes: school schedules, work deadlines after summer slowdowns, and the general acceleration of daily life. Stress is a well-documented eczema trigger. It raises cortisol and inflammatory markers in the body, which can push skin that was borderline into a full flare. Stress management will not cure eczema, but ignoring its role can undermine every other part of your treatment plan.

How to Manage Eczema in Fall Before Flares Start

The best approach to eczema in fall is proactive, not reactive. Do not wait for the first flare to change your routine. Switch to a heavier, cream-based moisturizer before the air dries out. Start running a humidifier at night as soon as the heating system turns on. Swap any irritating fabrics out of your wardrobe now. And if you have a prescription maintenance treatment, keep using it through the seasonal transition even if your skin looked clear in August. Many patients stop treatment when things improve, then struggle to regain control once a flare takes hold. Consistency through the transition is worth more than any rescue treatment after the fact.

When Eczema in Fall Needs a Dermatologist

If your eczema flares are severe enough to crack, bleed, or disrupt your sleep, if over-the-counter moisturizers and hydrocortisone are not controlling the itch, or if your patches are spreading to new areas, it is time for a medical dermatology evaluation. A board-certified dermatologist can prescribe stronger topical treatments, evaluate whether a systemic medication is appropriate, and rule out secondary infections that sometimes develop in cracked eczema skin. For patients with severe or widespread flares, newer biologic therapies have changed what is possible. A dermatologist can determine whether you are a candidate.

Get Eczema Relief in Cleveland, TN

The board-certified dermatologists at Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic in Cleveland treat eczema year-round and understand the seasonal patterns that drive flares in this area. If your skin is already reacting to the fall transition, or if you want to get ahead of it before the flares start, our team is ready to help.

Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic — Cleveland

3891 Adkisson Drive, Cleveland, TN 37312

Phone: 423-479-8648

Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM (EST)

Schedule an appointment or call our Cleveland office today.

Follow us! @chattskinandcancer

September 17, 2026
Adult Acne: 5 Surprising Causes and How to Treat It

Adult acne is far more common than most people expect, and if you are dealing with breakouts well past your teenage years, you are not alone. Roughly half of women and a quarter of men in their twenties, thirties, and forties experience some form of acne, and for many it appears for the first time in adulthood without any history of teenage breakouts. The frustration is real. You are doing everything you think you should be doing, washing your face, using the products that worked for someone else, maybe even overhauling your diet, and the breakouts keep coming back. The issue is usually not hygiene. It is something deeper, and understanding the actual cause is the only way to get it under control.

Why Adult Acne Is Different from Teenage Breakouts

Teenage acne is driven almost entirely by the hormonal surge of puberty, which ramps up oil production and clogs pores. Adult acne shares some of that biology but adds layers of complexity. Hormonal fluctuations tied to menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopause, and stress all influence adult breakouts differently than adolescent ones. The location is often different too. Teen acne tends to concentrate on the forehead and nose. Adult acne favors the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks. The texture can also differ. Adults are more likely to deal with deep, painful cystic lesions that sit under the surface rather than the whiteheads and blackheads that dominate younger skin. This means the treatments that cleared your skin at 16 are unlikely to work at 36.

5 Surprising Causes of Adult Acne

1. Hormonal shifts you may not notice.

Even small fluctuations in androgens, the hormones that stimulate oil production, can trigger breakouts in adults. Women often notice adult acne worsening in the days before a period, during pregnancy, or as they approach menopause. Men can experience hormonal acne related to testosterone fluctuations or supplementation. These shifts do not have to be dramatic to affect the skin. A board-certified dermatologist can help determine whether hormones are driving your breakouts and whether treatment should address that root cause.

2. Stress and cortisol.

Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which increases oil production and inflammation — a well-documented trigger for adult acne.

Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which in turn increases oil production and inflammation in the skin. This is not a vague connection. The relationship between stress and acne is well documented. If your breakouts tend to flare during high-pressure periods at work, during major life changes, or when your sleep is disrupted, cortisol is likely playing a role. Managing stress alone will not cure adult acne, but ignoring it makes every other treatment less effective.

3. Skincare and makeup products.

Heavy foundations and occlusive products can clog pores and trigger a cycle of irritation and adult acne breakouts.

Some of the products you are using to treat or cover acne may actually be making it worse. Heavy foundations, occlusive moisturizers, and cleansers with harsh surfactants can clog pores, strip the skin barrier, and trigger a cycle of irritation and breakouts. Look for products labeled non-comedogenic and oil-free. If you are unsure which products in your routine might be contributing, a dermatologist can review your regimen and point out what to keep and what to drop.

4. Medications and supplements.

Certain medications can trigger or worsen adult acne as a side effect. Corticosteroids, lithium, some anticonvulsants, and testosterone or DHEA supplements are common culprits. Biotin, a popular supplement taken for hair and nail growth, has also been linked to breakouts in some patients. If your acne started or worsened after beginning a new medication or supplement, mention it to your dermatologist. The timing may not be a coincidence.

5. An underlying skin condition mimicking acne.

Adult acne often concentrates along the jawline and lower cheeks, a pattern that points to hormonal or inflammatory causes a dermatologist can treat.

Not every bump on your face is acne. Rosacea can produce red, pus-filled bumps that look almost identical to acne but require completely different treatment. Perioral dermatitis, folliculitis, and fungal infections can also mimic adult acne. Treating the wrong condition with standard acne products can make things significantly worse. A medical dermatology evaluation is the fastest way to get a correct diagnosis and stop wasting time and money on treatments that were never going to work.

How a Dermatologist Treats Adult Acne

Over-the-counter products can help with mild adult acne, but moderate to severe cases almost always require prescription-strength treatment. Options include topical retinoids that accelerate cell turnover and prevent clogged pores, prescription-strength benzoyl peroxide or antibiotic combinations that target bacteria and inflammation, hormonal therapies like spironolactone for women whose acne is driven by androgen fluctuations, and in some cases, isotretinoin for severe cystic acne that has not responded to other treatments. The right plan depends on what is causing your specific breakouts, which is why a professional evaluation matters more than any product recommendation you will find online.

When to See a Dermatologist About Adult Acne

If your adult acne is leaving dark marks or scars, if over-the-counter products have not improved things after eight to twelve weeks, if your breakouts are deep and painful rather than surface-level, or if you suspect your acne might actually be something else, it is time to see a board-certified dermatologist. The longer adult acne goes untreated or improperly treated, the higher the risk of permanent scarring and hyperpigmentation. Getting the right diagnosis early saves your skin and your time.

Get Help for Adult Acne in Chattanooga

The board-certified dermatologists at Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic treat adult acne every day. Whether your breakouts are new, persistent, or resistant to everything you have tried, our team can identify the cause and build a treatment plan that works for your skin.

Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic

6061 Shallowford Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421

Phone: 423-899-2700

Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM (EST)

Schedule an appointment or call today.

Follow us! @chattskinandcancer

September 17, 2026
Dry Skin in Fall: What Causes It and How to Get Relief

Dry skin in fall is one of the most common complaints dermatologists hear as the seasons change, and for patients across Marion County, the Sequatchie Valley, Jasper, and South Pittsburg, the shift can feel sudden. One week the air is thick and humid. The next, your skin is tight, flaky, and itching in places it never bothered you during the summer. The temptation is to write it off as a minor inconvenience and wait for it to resolve on its own. Sometimes it does. But for a significant number of people, dry skin in fall is the beginning of a cycle that gets worse as winter approaches, especially if the underlying cause is something more than seasonal dryness.

Why Dry Skin in Fall Happens

The primary driver is a drop in humidity. During the summer months in Southeast Tennessee, humidity levels often hover above 70 percent, which helps keep skin hydrated naturally. When fall arrives, outdoor humidity decreases, and indoor heating begins pulling even more moisture from the air inside your home. Your moisture barrier, a thin layer of oils and lipids that sits on the surface and locks water in, starts losing more than it can retain. The result is dryness, tightness, flaking, and sometimes cracking, especially on the hands, lower legs, and face.

Age plays a role as well. As you get older, your skin produces fewer natural oils, which means the moisture barrier becomes thinner and less effective. Certain medications, including some cholesterol drugs and blood pressure treatments, can also contribute to drier skin. And if you already have a condition like eczema or psoriasis, the seasonal transition can trigger a flare that goes well beyond ordinary dryness.

How to Tell If Your Dry Skin Needs Medical Attention

When humidity drops in fall, the skin barrier loses moisture faster than it can retain it, leading to visible dryness and flaking.

Not all dry skin is the same. Mild dryness that responds to a good moisturizer within a few days is normal and manageable at home. But dry skin in fall that cracks, bleeds, develops red or scaly patches, itches intensely enough to disrupt sleep, or does not improve despite consistent moisturizing may indicate an underlying condition that requires evaluation. Rosacea can mimic dry skin on the face. Eczema often presents as dry, itchy patches that return to the same locations season after season. Psoriasis produces thick, silvery scales that look like severe dryness but do not respond to standard moisturizers. A board-certified dermatologist can distinguish between these conditions and recommend the right treatment plan, saving you from months of guessing with over-the-counter products that are not addressing the real issue.

6 Ways to Manage Dry Skin in Fall

1. Switch to a cream-based moisturizer.

Lotions are lighter and absorb quickly, which makes them ideal for summer. But when humidity drops, your skin needs something heavier. Cream-based moisturizers with ceramides, shea butter, or petrolatum create a stronger seal over the skin and prevent water loss more effectively. Apply within a few minutes of bathing while skin is still slightly damp to trap the moisture.

2. Take shorter, lukewarm showers.

Hot showers feel great when the weather cools down, but they strip the natural oils from your skin faster than almost anything else. Keep showers under 10 minutes and use warm, not hot, water. This single change can make a noticeable difference in how your skin feels within a week.

3. Use a humidifier in your home.

Running a humidifier indoors is one of the most effective ways to combat dry skin in fall as heating systems strip moisture from the air.

Once your furnace or heat pump kicks on, the air inside your home dries out quickly. A humidifier in your bedroom can maintain moisture levels between 40 and 50 percent, which supports your skin barrier while you sleep. This is especially helpful for people whose dry skin in fall worsens at night or first thing in the morning.

4. Choose gentle, fragrance-free cleansers.

Harsh soaps and body washes with added fragrances, dyes, or sulfates can irritate already-dry skin and break down the moisture barrier further. Switch to a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser for both face and body. If you have been using an exfoliating wash, reduce frequency to once or twice a week until your skin stabilizes.

5. Protect your hands and lips.

The hands are one of the first places dry skin in fall shows up — applying cream throughout the day helps protect this vulnerable area.

The skin on your hands and lips is thinner and more vulnerable to drying out. Wear gloves when the temperature drops and apply a thick hand cream multiple times throughout the day. For lips, use a balm with beeswax or petrolatum rather than flavored lip products that can actually increase dryness.

6. Continue wearing sunscreen.

Sun protection is not a summer-only concern. UV rays remain strong enough in early fall to damage the skin barrier and worsen dryness. A moisturizing sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher does double duty: it protects against UV damage and adds a layer of hydration. Your dermatologist can help you find a formula that works with dry or sensitive skin.

When Dry Skin in Fall Is Something More

If your dry skin in fall does not improve after two to three weeks of consistent moisturizing, or if it is accompanied by intense itching, redness, swelling, open cracks, or bleeding, it is time to see a dermatologist. These symptoms may point to eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, or another condition that needs medical dermatology treatment beyond what over-the-counter products can provide. The goal is not to live with it. The goal is to figure out what is actually going on so you can treat it properly and prevent it from coming back every year.

Get Help for Dry Skin in Kimball, TN

The board-certified dermatologists at Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic in Kimball serve patients throughout Marion County, the Sequatchie Valley, Jasper, and South Pittsburg. Whether your dry skin is a seasonal nuisance or a sign of something that needs professional treatment, our team can help you find the right solution.

Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic — Kimball

400 Dixie Lee Center Road, Suite C, Kimball, TN 37347

Phone: 423-815-9975

Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (CST). First Friday of each month, 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM (CST).

Schedule an appointment or call our Kimball office today.

Follow us! @chattskinandcancer

September 8, 2026
5 Skin Cancer Risk Factors Every Adult Should Know

Skin cancer risk factors are not always obvious, and that is part of what makes skin cancer so dangerous. Most people know that too much sun is bad for the skin. Fewer people know exactly which risk factors put them in a higher category for developing basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma. Understanding your personal risk profile is not about creating anxiety. It is about knowing when to take action, how often to get screened, and what to watch for between appointments. In Southeast Tennessee, where outdoor activity runs year-round and sun exposure accumulates faster than people expect, awareness of these risk factors can make the difference between catching something early and catching it late.

Why Skin Cancer Risk Factors Matter More Than You Think

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and it does not discriminate by age, gender, or fitness level. One in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer by age 70. The word “risk factor” does not mean a diagnosis is inevitable. It means that certain characteristics, behaviors, and histories raise the probability enough that you should be paying closer attention. Some skin cancer risk factors are things you can change, like sun protection habits. Others, like your genetic makeup, are things you cannot change but can respond to with smarter screening schedules and earlier intervention.

The 5 Skin Cancer Risk Factors You Need to Understand

1. A history of sunburns and UV exposure

This is the single most significant modifiable risk factor. Even one blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence roughly doubles the risk of melanoma later in life. But it is not just severe burns that matter. Years of moderate, unprotected sun exposure, the kind people in the Cleveland and Bradley County area accumulate from gardening, coaching youth sports, working outdoors, and weekend lake trips, add up. Tanning bed use compounds the damage. UV radiation causes direct DNA mutations in skin cells, and the body can only repair so much before those mutations start to stick.

Years of outdoor activity in Southeast Tennessee add up — cumulative UV exposure is one of the leading skin cancer risk factors.

2. Fair skin, light eyes, and red or blond hair

People with lighter complexions produce less melanin, the pigment that provides some natural defense against UV radiation. If you burn easily, freckle in the sun, or have naturally light hair and eyes, your baseline protection is lower. This does not mean people with darker skin tones are immune. Skin cancer occurs across all skin types, and it is often diagnosed later in people with more pigment because the warning signs are harder to spot. But statistically, fair-skinned individuals face a higher rate of both non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancers, and their skin cancer risk factors accumulate faster with each year of unprotected exposure.

Fair skin, light eyes, and freckles are among the skin cancer risk factors that make sun protection especially important.

3. Family history of melanoma or other skin cancers

Genetics play a measurable role. If a first-degree relative, a parent, sibling, or child, has been diagnosed with melanoma, your own risk increases significantly. Certain inherited gene mutations, like those in the CDKN2A gene, are associated with familial melanoma. Even without a known gene mutation, a family history of skin cancer should prompt more frequent professional skin exams and heightened personal vigilance. Mention your family history to your dermatologist so they can adjust your screening schedule accordingly.

4. A large number of moles or atypical moles

Having more than 50 common moles is a recognized risk factor for melanoma. If you also have atypical moles, sometimes called dysplastic nevi, which are moles that are larger than average, have irregular borders, or show uneven color, the risk increases further. Not every atypical mole becomes cancerous. Most do not. But having several of them means your skin has a higher likelihood of producing a mole that does cross that line. Regular monitoring and medical dermatology evaluations help track changes over time.

5. Age and cumulative sun exposure

Skin cancer risk increases with age, primarily because UV damage is cumulative. The mutations caused by sun exposure in your twenties and thirties may not manifest as cancer until your fifties, sixties, or later. This is why skin cancer risk factors are not just about your current sun habits. They are about every sunburn, every summer spent outdoors without adequate protection, and every decade of exposure stacked on top of the last. Adults over 50 should be especially proactive about annual screenings, even if they have never had a suspicious spot.

What You Can Do About Your Skin Cancer Risk Factors

As cumulative sun exposure adds up with age, regular skin checks become one of the most important steps you can take.

Some risk factors cannot be changed. You cannot alter your skin type, your genetics, or the sunburns you had twenty years ago. But you can control what happens from this point forward. Wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, avoiding peak UV hours, wearing protective clothing, and stopping tanning bed use are all meaningful steps. More importantly, understanding that you carry skin cancer risk factors should change how often you see a dermatologist. If you have two or more of the factors listed above, annual full-body skin exams are a minimum, and your dermatologist may recommend more frequent checks depending on your history.

When to Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening

If you have not had a skin cancer screening in the past year, or if you have never had one at all, September is a smart time to schedule. The summer is behind you, and any new damage from this season is now visible. A board-certified dermatologist can evaluate your skin from head to toe, identify precancerous changes before they progress, and create a monitoring plan that matches your personal skin cancer risk factors. If something does need treatment, catching it now means simpler, less invasive options. For cancers that require surgical removal, procedures like Mohs surgery offer the highest cure rates with the least tissue loss.

Understand Your Risk and Take Action in Cleveland, TN

The board-certified dermatologists at Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic in Cleveland are experienced in evaluating skin cancer risk factors, performing thorough screenings, and treating all types of skin cancer. Whether you need your first screening or a follow-up after a previous diagnosis, our team is ready to help.

Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic — Cleveland

3891 Adkisson Drive, Cleveland, TN 37312

Phone: 423-479-8648

Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM (EST)

Schedule your screening or call our Cleveland office today.

Follow us! @chattskinandcancer

September 8, 2026
Fall Skin Care: 7 Tips to Repair and Protect Your Skin After Summer

Fall skin care is something most people put off until the first cold snap, but September is actually the best time to start. The summer months in Southeast Tennessee bring intense UV exposure, high humidity, and hours of outdoor activity, and all of that takes a toll on your skin. By the time Labor Day passes, your skin has absorbed months of cumulative sun, chlorine, sweat, and heat. The damage may not be dramatic, but it is there: dullness, uneven tone, dry patches, rough texture, and in some cases, new spots that were not there in May. Transitioning your skincare routine now, rather than waiting for winter, gives your skin the best chance to recover before the cold air and indoor heating strip it down even further.

Why Your Skin Needs a Fall Skin Care Reset

The shift from summer to fall changes the environment your skin lives in more quickly than most people realize. Humidity drops. Temperatures swing from warm afternoons to cool mornings. Indoor heating starts drying out the air in your home and office. Your skin, which has been producing extra oil and sweat to cope with the heat, is suddenly dealing with drier conditions without the natural protection those extra oils provided. At the same time, the UV damage from summer does not stop causing problems just because the calendar changed. Sun-related changes to skin cells, collagen breakdown, and pigmentation shifts continue to develop beneath the surface. A fall skin care routine addresses both of those realities: it supports the moisture barrier your skin needs for the season ahead and begins repairing what the summer left behind.

7 Fall Skin Care Tips from Board-Certified Dermatologists

1. Assess your skin for new or changed spots.

Checking your skin for new or changed spots after summer is one of the most important steps in a fall skin care routine.

Before you change anything about your routine, take a good look. Stand in front of a mirror in bright, even light and check your face, neck, chest, arms, and hands for any spots that are new, darker, larger, or different in texture from a few months ago. This is not about diagnosing anything yourself. It is about noticing what has changed so you can bring it up at your next appointment. If something looks off, do not wait. Skin cancer caught early is almost always treatable, and the end of summer is when new damage is most visible.

2. Swap your lightweight moisturizer for something richer.

The gel or water-based moisturizer that kept your skin comfortable in July will not hold up as humidity drops. Switch to a cream-based formula with ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin. These help rebuild the skin barrier and hold moisture in. Apply it on slightly damp skin right after cleansing for better absorption. If you have a condition like eczema or psoriasis, talk to your dermatologist about prescription-strength barrier repair products.

3. Keep wearing sunscreen every single day.

Switching to a cream-based moisturizer helps protect your skin barrier as humidity drops in the fall.

One of the biggest fall skin care mistakes is putting sunscreen away with the beach towels. UV rays do not disappear in September. They remain strong enough in the Chattanooga area to cause real damage, especially on the face, neck, and hands, which stay exposed even as you layer up. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning, even on cloudy days. If you struggle with sunscreen irritating your skin, your dermatologist can recommend a formula that works with conditions like rosacea or sensitive skin.

4. Introduce a retinoid if you have not already.

Fall is the ideal time to start using a retinoid. These vitamin A derivatives accelerate cell turnover, fade dark spots, smooth texture, and stimulate collagen production, which is exactly what sun-damaged skin needs. The reason fall is better than summer for starting a retinoid is simple: retinoids make skin more sensitive to UV light, and the shorter, less intense days of autumn reduce that risk. Start with a low concentration two to three nights per week and build up gradually. If you have acne along with sun damage, a prescription retinoid can address both at the same time.

5. Hydrate from the inside.

As the air dries out, your body loses more moisture through the skin without you realizing it. Increasing your water intake and eating water-rich foods supports your skin from the inside while your topical products work on the surface. This is not a replacement for a moisturizer, but it makes your moisturizer work better. Dehydrated skin looks dull, flaky, and older than it is, and those effects compound on top of any summer damage that has not been addressed yet.

6. Exfoliate gently, not aggressively.

After a long summer, it is tempting to scrub away the dullness. Resist the urge to use harsh physical scrubs. Your skin barrier has already been stressed by UV exposure, and aggressive exfoliation can make things worse by creating micro-tears and triggering inflammation. Use a gentle chemical exfoliant with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic or lactic acid one to two times per week. These dissolve dead skin cells without damaging the surface and can improve tone and texture over a few weeks.

7. Schedule a professional skin check.

This is the single most important item on this list. A board-certified dermatologist can identify things your mirror cannot. Post-summer is the right time for a full-body skin exam because sun-induced changes, precancerous spots like actinic keratoses, and early melanoma are most detectable when they are fresh. If your dermatologist finds something that needs treatment, catching it now means simpler, less invasive options.

When to See a Dermatologist About Post-Summer Skin Changes

Not every fall skin care concern can be handled at home. If you notice a mole that has changed in size, shape, or color, a rough scaly patch that will not heal, persistent redness or irritation that does not respond to over-the-counter products, or new dark spots that seem to be spreading, schedule an appointment rather than waiting to see if it resolves on its own. A dermatologist can determine whether what you are seeing is cosmetic, inflammatory, or something that needs further evaluation. The goal of a good fall skin care routine is not perfection. It is protection. You are setting your skin up to handle the colder months ahead while addressing the real effects of another Tennessee summer.

Start Your Fall Skin Care Routine with Expert Help in Chattanooga

The board-certified dermatologists at Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic are here to help you transition your skin care for the season. Whether you need a post-summer skin check, help managing a chronic condition, or guidance on the right products for your skin type, we are ready to see you.

Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic

6061 Shallowford Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421

Phone: 423-899-2700

Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM (EST)

Schedule an appointment or call today.
Follow us! @chattskinandcancer

September 8, 2026
Contact Dermatitis Treatment: 6 Things a Dermatologist Wants You to Know

Contact dermatitis treatment is one of the most frequent reasons patients schedule a dermatology appointment during the late summer and early fall. The rash usually starts the same way: you were outside, you touched something, and now a patch of skin is red, swollen, intensely itchy, and possibly blistering. Maybe it was a brush against a vine while clearing brush. Maybe it was a new laundry detergent or a pair of gloves you wore for the first time. Whatever the trigger, the result is the same: inflamed skin that demands attention and does not resolve as quickly as you expected.

The frustrating part is that contact dermatitis can look like a dozen other skin conditions. Patients often treat it as eczema, a fungal infection, or an allergic reaction to food before they ever identify the real cause. A board-certified dermatologist can pinpoint the trigger, determine whether the reaction is irritant or allergic in nature, and recommend a contact dermatitis treatment plan that addresses the specific cause rather than just masking the symptoms.

What Is Contact Dermatitis?

Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin reaction that occurs when your skin comes into direct contact with a substance that either damages it or triggers an immune response. It is not contagious, it is not caused by poor hygiene, and it can happen to anyone regardless of skin type or history. There are two main types, and they behave differently.

Irritant contact dermatitis is the more common form. It occurs when a substance directly damages the outer layer of skin. Common culprits include harsh soaps, cleaning products, solvents, bleach, rubbing alcohol, prolonged water exposure, and even friction from rough materials. The reaction usually develops within hours of exposure and tends to stay localized to the area that made contact. People who work with their hands, whether in cleaning, construction, food service, or gardening, are especially prone to this type.

Allergic contact dermatitis is an immune-mediated reaction. Your immune system identifies a specific substance as a threat and launches an inflammatory response every time your skin encounters it. The most well-known example is the rash caused by poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac, all of which contain an oil called urushiol that triggers an allergic reaction in roughly 85 percent of people. Other common allergens include nickel found in jewelry and belt buckles, fragrances in personal care products, preservatives in cosmetics, latex, and certain topical medications including neomycin. This type of reaction can take 12 to 72 hours to appear, which makes identifying the trigger much harder.

Why Contact Dermatitis Is So Common in Late Summer

Late summer is when dermatologists see a spike in contact dermatitis cases, and the reasons line up with how people spend their time. Yards and properties get cleared before fall. Gardens are harvested. Hiking and outdoor recreation are at their peak. All of this means more skin-to-plant contact, more exposure to soil and sap, and more encounters with poison ivy, which thrives in wooded and overgrown areas across Southeast Tennessee.

Poison ivy rashes are particularly common because urushiol oil is extraordinarily potent. An amount smaller than a grain of salt can cause a full-blown reaction. The oil can linger on clothing, garden tools, pet fur, and shoes for months, meaning you do not have to touch the plant directly to develop the rash. Many patients come in with a rash and swear they were nowhere near poison ivy, only to discover that the oil transferred from a pair of gloves or from their dog.

Heat and sweat compound the problem. Perspiration can intensify skin irritation and make the barrier more vulnerable to both irritants and allergens. Products that your skin tolerated fine in the winter, such as a particular sunscreen or insect repellent, can suddenly cause a reaction when applied to hot, sweaty skin.

How to Tell If You Need Contact Dermatitis Treatment From a Dermatologist

Mild cases of contact dermatitis often resolve on their own within two to three weeks once you stop touching the substance that caused the reaction. Cool compresses, over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream, and an oral antihistamine for itching are reasonable first steps.

However, there are several situations where professional contact dermatitis treatment is necessary. If the rash covers a large area of your body, involves your face, eyes, or genitals, or is producing significant blistering, you should see a dermatologist. A rash that is getting worse instead of better after a week of home care also warrants evaluation. Signs of infection, including increasing pain, warmth, swelling, pus, or red streaks spreading from the rash, require prompt medical attention.

Patients who experience recurring episodes of contact dermatitis should also see a dermatologist, even if each individual episode seems manageable. Repeated reactions suggest an ongoing allergen exposure that needs to be identified, and a dermatologist can perform patch testing to pinpoint exactly which substances are triggering the immune response.

How a Dermatologist Diagnoses Contact Dermatitis

A dermatologist examines a patient’s skin to determine whether the reaction is caused by an irritant or an allergen and recommend the right treatment.

Diagnosis starts with a thorough history. Your dermatologist will ask when the rash appeared, where it started, what products you use on your skin, what you were doing in the hours and days before the reaction, and whether you have had similar episodes in the past. The pattern of the rash itself provides important clues. A linear, streaky pattern often points to plant contact. A rash that follows the line of a waistband, watchband, or necklace suggests a metal or fabric allergen. A rash that appears on both hands symmetrically often indicates an irritant related to work or household products.

When the trigger is not immediately obvious or when a patient has recurring reactions, patch testing is the gold standard diagnostic tool. This involves applying small amounts of common allergens to adhesive patches, placing them on the patient’s back, and reading the results after 48 and 96 hours. Patch testing can identify specific allergies to metals, fragrances, preservatives, rubber chemicals, and dozens of other substances. Once the allergen is identified, the dermatologist can provide a comprehensive list of products and materials to avoid, which is often more effective than any medication at preventing future flares.

Contact Dermatitis Treatment Options

The right contact dermatitis treatment depends on the severity and type of reaction. For mild to moderate cases, prescription-strength topical corticosteroids are the first-line treatment. These are significantly more effective than over-the-counter hydrocortisone and can reduce inflammation, itching, and blistering within days. Your dermatologist will select the appropriate strength based on the location and severity of the rash, since thinner skin on the face and skin folds requires a milder formulation than thicker skin on the arms or legs.

For severe or widespread reactions, a short course of oral corticosteroids may be necessary. This is common with extensive poison ivy rashes that cover large areas or affect the face. The oral medication works systemically to calm the immune response. It is important to complete the full course as prescribed, because stopping too early often leads to a rebound flare that can be worse than the original rash.

In cases where the skin barrier has been significantly compromised, your dermatologist may also recommend barrier repair strategies, including specific moisturizers, gentle cleansers, and temporary changes to your skin care routine to allow the skin to heal completely before reintroducing other products.

For patients with confirmed allergic contact dermatitis, long-term management centers on allergen avoidance. Once patch testing identifies the specific trigger, your dermatologist will help you understand where that substance commonly appears, which product labels to read, and what alternatives are available.

Preventing Contact Dermatitis

Gardening or doing yard work without gloves increases your exposure to soil irritants and plants like poison ivy that can trigger contact dermatitis.

Prevention is straightforward once you know what to avoid. For plant-related reactions, wearing long sleeves, pants, and gloves when working in wooded or overgrown areas provides a physical barrier. Washing skin with soap and water within 15 to 30 minutes of suspected exposure to poison ivy can remove urushiol oil before the reaction sets in. Wash clothing, tools, and pet fur separately after outdoor work, since the oil does not break down on its own.

For irritant contact dermatitis, wearing appropriate protective gloves when handling cleaning products, solvents, or chemicals is essential. Switching to fragrance-free, dye-free soaps, detergents, and personal care products can eliminate a surprising number of triggers. If you work with your hands in wet conditions, applying a barrier cream before starting and moisturizing thoroughly afterward helps protect the skin.

For nickel allergies, which are among the most common contact allergies, choosing jewelry, belt buckles, and eyeglass frames made from surgical-grade stainless steel, titanium, or platinum avoids the trigger entirely.

Schedule an Appointment

If you have a rash that will not go away, keeps coming back, or is severe enough to disrupt your daily life, a dermatologist can identify the cause and put together the right contact dermatitis treatment plan. The board-certified dermatologists at Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic have been caring for patients across the Tennessee Valley since 1973. Our Kimball office is located at 400 Dixie Lee Center Road, Suite C, Kimball, TN 37347, and is open Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. CST, and the first Friday of each month from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. CST. Visit our contact page to request an appointment or call 423-815-9975 to schedule.

Follow us! @chattskinandcancer

August 27, 2026