Your skin is your largest organ and your first line of defense—so when something goes wrong, your body often shows signs. At Allure Laser, Skin & Aesthetic Medicine Centre in Nairobi-Karen and Mombasa, we specialize in diagnosing and treating all common skin diseases seen in Kenya’s diverse climate and population.
Understanding the most common skin infections and conditions can help you spot the signs early, seek timely treatment, and maintain healthy, beautiful skin.
1. Fungal Infections (Tinea, Ringworm, Athlete’s Foot)
Fungal infections are extremely common in warm, humid environments like Kenya. They thrive in moist areas and are contagious.
Symptoms to Watch For:
Red, itchy, ring-shaped rashes
Peeling or cracking skin between toes (Athlete’s foot)
Discoloration or thickening of nails (Fungal nail infections)
Prevention & Treatment:
Keep skin dry and clean
Avoid sharing towels or footwear
Use antifungal creams or oral medications prescribed by a dermatologist
2. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and cracked skin. It’s more common in children but can affect adults too.
Symptoms to Watch For:
Itchy, inflamed patches
Thickened, scaly skin
Flare-ups triggered by allergens, stress, or weather
Prevention & Treatment:
Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers
Avoid irritants like harsh soaps
Prescription creams and lifestyle changes help control flare-ups
3. Acne Vulgaris
Acne is one of the most common skin concerns we treat at Allure, affecting teens and adults. It’s caused by clogged pores, hormones, and bacteria.
Symptoms to Watch For:
Whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, or cysts
Usually appears on the face, back, chest, or shoulders
Prevention & Treatment:
Keep skin clean with non-comedogenic products
Avoid popping pimples
Visit a dermatologist for medical-grade treatments like peels, lasers, or prescription medications
4. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes the skin to regenerate faster than normal, leading to thick, scaly patches.
Symptoms to Watch For:
Red patches with silver scales
Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
Joint pain in some cases (psoriatic arthritis)
Management:
Topical steroids and vitamin D creams
Light therapy and oral medications
Stress management and hydration
5. Bacterial Infections (Impetigo, Boils, Cellulitis)
Bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus can infect the skin when there are cuts, insect bites, or poor hygiene.
Symptoms to Watch For:
Painful boils or pus-filled lesions
Red, swollen areas that are warm to the touch
Honey-colored crusts in impetigo
Treatment:
Proper wound care and hygiene
Topical or oral antibiotics
Immediate care to prevent spread or complications
6. Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a condition where the skin loses its pigment cells (melanocytes), leading to white patches.
Symptoms to Watch For:
White patches on the skin or inside the mouth
Symmetrical or random in distribution
Often noticeable on hands, face, and genitals
Management:
Topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors
Phototherapy (narrow-band UVB)
Cosmetic camouflage and psychological support
7. Skin Tags and Benign Growths
While not infections, benign skin growths like skin tags, moles, and seborrheic keratosis are common dermatologic concerns.
Symptoms to Watch For:
Soft, hanging skin pieces (tags)
Dark or light-colored raised patches (keratosis)
Moles that change shape or color (should be examined)
Management:
Safe removal through cryotherapy, laser, or minor surgery
Regular skin checks to rule out malignancy
8. Hyperpigmentation and Sun Damage
Excessive sun exposure can cause sun spots, melasma, and uneven skin tone.
Symptoms to Watch For:
Dark patches on cheeks, forehead, or upper lip
Freckles or sunspots that darken with sun exposure
Prevention & Treatment:
Daily broad-spectrum SPF (Check our Mesoestetic Mesoprotech Sunscreens)
Skin-brightening serums and professional chemical peels
Laser therapy for resistant pigmentation
9. Contact Dermatitis
A common allergic reaction to skincare products, soaps, or jewelry.
Symptoms:
Itchy, red rashes
Swelling or blisters
Often occurs where skin contacts allergens
Treatment:
Identify and avoid triggers
Use corticosteroid creams and antihistamines
Patch testing may be recommended
10. Warts (Caused by Human Papilloma Virus – HPV)
Warts are small growths caused by the human papillomavirus. They are contagious and may spread on your skin or to others.
Types:
Common warts (hands and fingers)
Plantar warts (soles of feet)
Genital warts (sexually transmitted)
Treatment:
Cryotherapy (freezing)
Electrocautery or laser therapy
Prescription wart removers
When to See a Dermatologist
Many skin conditions look similar—don’t guess! Seek help if you have:
Persistent itching or redness
Sudden rash or swelling
Moles that change color, size, or shape
Skin infections that worsen or spread
Why Choose Allure Dermatology Clinic in Nairobi-Karen & Mombasa?
At Allure, we’re proud to be one of the leading dermatology clinics in Kenya, offering advanced diagnostics and treatments for all skin concerns. Our team of experts offers:
Dermatology consultations
Skin infection treatments
Acne, pigmentation, and eczema care
Cosmetic dermatology (Botox, PRP, Microneedling, etc.)
Advanced laser therapies for skin and hair
📍 Visit Us in Nairobi-Karen & Mombasa
📅 Book Your Consultation Online: https://www.allurekenya.com/appointment-booking/
🛒 Shop Medical Skincare: https://allure.co.ke/
