Are Skin Diseases Genetic?
Any dermatologist will tell you that skin disease can be a result of diet, environment, overall health, and, of course, genetics. Most people know that small changes in diet and environment can help manage skin conditions, but when it comes to genes, we rarely have any choice. If you were a smoker but didn’t like the wrinkles around your lips, you can quit smoking and begin healing your skin, and using topical treatments can reduce the signs of wrinkles.
Even when making changes with the best intentions, sometimes things are beyond our control, and it is often then that we have genetic tendencies that must be handled with care. When facing a skin disease that makes you feel self-conscious or when you want to improve your skin’s appearance, working with an experienced, knowledgeable dermatologist can make all the difference, as they truly understand skin and the factors that can affect it. A licensed dermatologist works with patients to identify conditions and concerns and determine what is genetic and what isn’t something to fix. Many skin diseases are fungal or viral, while others can be from compromised immune systems. Understanding common genetic skin diseases helps people make the best choices about how to move forward with their skincare.
Vitiligo Has Genetic Ties
Vitiligo appears as white patches of skin that vary in size and are not specific to any part of the body, but are more frequent on skin exposed to UV. Vitiligo is caused by malfunctioning melanin-producing cells called melanocytes. This skin disease is known to have a genetic component, increasing the risk within the same line. Vitiligo can affect all skin tones, but is more noticeable on darker skin tones. Most people nowadays know that this skin disease is not contagious and is not life-threatening. These lightened areas of the skin are more susceptible to sun damage, increasing the risk of skin cancer. However, skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early, so if you have vitiligo, start getting annual cancer screenings and get a baseline for future exams with your dermatologist.
Acne Can Be Genetic
Yes, most people have acne at some point in their lives. Teens going through puberty and pregnant women can experience the onset of acne, but it often clears on its own. Acne affects more than 80% of people and is caused by blocked pores that are trying to excrete dead skin cells, bacteria, and sebum. Acne can be mild or severe, resulting in pustule acne that can leave scars. Recent studies have provided further evidence of a direct connection between acne and genetics. More than 15 acne-related genetic variants have been found.
Skin Cancer Across Family Genetics
As with many forms of cancer, skin cancer has been found in many individuals of the same family line. Ten percent of cases occur within the same family. Inherited genetics increase the chances of forming skin cancer, which can be highly treatable when caught early. We can’t encourage you enough to get a thorough skin cancer screening from your dermatologist to catch any signs early!
Psoriasis Can Be Genetic
Multiple factors cause psoriasis, but parents with the condition often find that their offspring have it as well. There are 16 genetic markers associated with psoriasis. Environmental factors such as high stress, obesity, and smoking have all been connected to more severe cases of psoriasis. Those with psoriasis may experience outbreaks that last for weeks or even months, then clear up. It is when these outbreaks are chronic that people seek relief through treatments. Topical creams and other therapies are being used to provide individuals with relief from chronic psoriasis.
Warts Indirectly Genetic
Although warts are not entirely genetic, inherited immune system traits can make individuals more vulnerable to the virus that causes warts. In this case, some people are more prone to warts than others. Warts are highly treatable and can be identified by a professional dermatologist. Warts can be treated topically and are often linked to environmental factors that a person can eliminate to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Whatever your skin concerns, Dr. Sherrie Straughn at Buckhead Dermatology is here to help. When you want to see your skin improve, whether acne, psoriasis, or a mole that doesn’t look right, seeing a licensed professional is the most certain way to get an accurate diagnosis and have access to the best treatments that are safe and affordable. Don’t wait and contact Buckhead Dermatology today for an appointment at 404-816-4000.