RED ALERT: Beat

MORE people than ever suffer now from long-term skin conditions – the most common being acne, rosacea, eczema and seborrheic dermatitis — and sometimes all four at the same time.

While not life-threatening in themselves, the psychological damage can be underestimated.

Yet many doctors still view these ailments as minor complaints, which can make getting suitable treatment a challenge.

Skin conditions are the fourth most common reason for GP visits — each year, 15 per cent of all visits are attributed to a skin complaint.

Between 25 and 33 per cent of the Irish population suffer from a dermatological condition at any one time.

Acne, commonly associated with teenagers, is on the rise among adults — 12 per cent of women and three per cent of men over 25 have the condition. Celebrity sufferers include Hollywood actress Cameron Diaz, 39, Victoria Beckham, 38, and singer Katy Perry, 27, who skilfully disguise the outbreaks.

Studies show that up to 20 per cent of Irish children have suffered from atopic eczema by the age of four. Psoriasis is another common skin disease that causes huge distress and for which treatment remains elusive — Kim Kardashian is a sufferer.

Whatever the condition, in most cases, there are effective ways to manage if not cure symptoms.

Here, dermatology expert Dr Nick Lowe, consultant dermatologist Dr Adam Friedmann and cosmetic dermatologist Dr Samantha Bunting explain the best options available.