What Causes Inflammation in the Skin
Skin inflammation happens when your body’s defense system reacts to something, leading to redness, swelling, itching, or warmth on the skin. It can range from mild irritation to serious rashes that need medical care[1][2][3].
One common cause is infections. Bacteria like streptococcus or staphylococcus can enter through cuts, bites, or wounds, triggering swelling and heat as your immune cells fight back. This is seen in conditions like cellulitis, where the deep skin layers get infected[2]. Viruses, fungi, or parasites can also spark similar reactions[1].
Allergies and irritants play a big role too. Your skin might react to pollen, foods, cosmetics, detergents, insect bites, or even weather changes. These trigger the immune system to release chemicals that cause hives, rashes, or itchy bumps known as contact dermatitis[1][7].
Autoimmune disorders make the body attack its own skin. In eczema or atopic dermatitis, a weak skin barrier lets allergens in, leading to ongoing inflammation from overactive immune cells and itch-causing signals[3]. Psoriasis causes scaly red patches from rapid skin cell growth driven by immune issues[1]. Lupus brings a butterfly-shaped facial rash worsened by sun exposure, as the immune system harms skin tissues[4]. Dermatomyositis leads to red or purple rashes on sun-exposed areas due to blood vessel swelling[5].
Injuries and daily wear add to it. Cuts, burns, friction, or repeated rubbing break the skin, inviting inflammation or infection[1]. Poor blood flow from vascular problems or nutrient shortages like vitamin deficiencies can delay healing and cause dry, inflamed skin[1].
Chronic low-level inflammation from ongoing stress or irritants can worsen issues like acne, redness, and early aging[6]. Genetics, infections, or certain drugs can also set off these responses in people prone to them[3][4].
Sources
https://nec24.com/uncategorized/what-is-a-lesion
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549770/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atopic_dermatitis
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lupus/symptoms-causes/syc-20365789
https://www.ummhealth.org/health-library/dermatomyositis
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/uJPIR6gAjAs
https://nixhealthcare.org/skin-allergy-symptoms-causes-and-best-treatment-options/
https://myhealth.umassmemorial.org/library/Wellness/DiseasesConditions/85,P00309
