The skin is the largest organ of the human body — and the most visible. It protects against infection, regulates temperature and is the first indicator of many internal health conditions. Despite this, we often neglect it until a problem arises.
At Clínica Eupnea in Palamós, the dermatology service provides diagnosis and treatment for all types of skin conditions, from juvenile acne to the early detection of suspicious lesions.
In this article
Key takeaways
- The skin is the largest organ and requires professional attention
- Acne affects 80% of teenagers and has effective treatment
- The ABCDE rule helps detect suspicious moles
- Psoriasis is chronic but controllable with proper treatment
- Daily sun protection is the most effective anti-ageing measure
- Dermoscopy enables more precise, painless diagnoses
Acne: much more than a cosmetic issue
Acne is the most common dermatological condition, affecting roughly 80% of teenagers and young adults. But it is not exclusive to youth — adult acne, particularly in women, is increasingly prevalent.
The main types of acne are:
- Comedonal acne: blackheads and whiteheads, common in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin)
- Inflammatory acne: red papules and pustules that are tender to the touch
- Cystic/nodular acne: the most severe form, with deep nodules that can leave scars
Treatment varies by severity: from non-comedogenic skincare products and topical retinoids to oral antibiotics or isotretinoin for the most severe cases. The key is to treat acne promptly to prevent permanent scarring.
Moles and melanoma: the importance of early detection
Most moles (melanocytic naevi) are benign, but some can transform into melanoma, one of the most aggressive skin cancers. The good news: when caught early, melanoma has a cure rate exceeding 95%.
Use the ABCDE rule to monitor your moles:
- A — Asymmetry: one half is different from the other
- B — Border: irregular, blurred or poorly defined edges
- C — Colour: multiple colours (brown, black, red, white, blue)
- D — Diameter: larger than 6 mm (the size of a pencil eraser)
- E — Evolution: any change in size, shape, colour or symptoms (itching, bleeding)
The dermatoscope is an essential tool that allows the dermatologist to examine moles at 10× magnification with polarised light, revealing structures invisible to the naked eye. At Clínica Eupnea we recommend an annual mole check, especially if you have fair skin, numerous moles or a family history of melanoma.
When should you see a dermatologist urgently?
Book an appointment as soon as possible if you notice a mole that has recently changed in size, shape or colour; has irregular borders or multiple colours; itches, hurts or bleeds; or if a new dark mole appears after the age of 40. Early detection of melanoma can save lives.
Psoriasis: living with a chronic condition
Psoriasis affects 2–3% of the population and is much more than a cosmetic issue: it is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes skin cells to renew ten times faster than normal, forming red plaques covered with whitish scales.
The most commonly affected areas are elbows, knees, scalp and lower back. Current treatments offer excellent control:
- Topical treatments: corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, retinoids
- Phototherapy: controlled exposure to narrow-band UVB light
- Systemic treatments: methotrexate, ciclosporin for moderate-to-severe psoriasis
- Biologics: a revolution in psoriasis treatment — highly targeted drugs with excellent results
Basic skin care routine
Dermatologists recommend a simple but consistent routine:
- Gentle cleansing: a cleanser suited to your skin type (gel for oily skin, milk or micellar water for dry skin), morning and evening
- Moisturising: a daily moisturiser, even for oily skin (use lightweight textures)
- Sun protection: SPF 30 minimum every day, all year round — the most effective anti-ageing measure
- Targeted actives: as needed — retinol (anti-ageing), niacinamide (pores & dark spots), hyaluronic acid (hydration), vitamin C (radiance)
Avoid: washing your face with body soap, harsh exfoliants and sun exposure without protection. And remember: less is more — a simple, consistent routine is more effective than many products applied haphazardly.
Frequently asked questions
An annual dermatological mole check is recommended, especially if you have fair skin, more than 50 moles, a family history of melanoma, or if you have experienced frequent sunburn. Between visits, carry out a monthly self-examination using the ABCDE rule and consult your dermatologist if you notice any changes.
Inflammatory and cystic acne can leave scars if not treated promptly. This is why it is important to see a dermatologist when acne is persistent or severe, rather than waiting for it to clear up on its own. If you already have scars, treatments such as chemical peels, microneedling or laser therapy can significantly improve their appearance.
There is currently no definitive cure for psoriasis, but the available treatments allow excellent control of the condition. Biologic therapies have revolutionised the management of moderate-to-severe psoriasis, enabling many patients to be virtually lesion-free. Your dermatologist can find the most appropriate treatment for your individual case.
A broad-spectrum sunscreen (UVA + UVB) with SPF 30 or higher is recommended. Apply generously 20–30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours. For everyday use, a moisturiser with built-in SPF can be convenient. Sunscreen is the most effective anti-ageing measure and the best protection against skin cancer.
Need a dermatologist in Palamós?
The dermatology team at Clínica Eupnea can help you with any skin concern.
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