Common issues
Skin problems and rashes
Medically reviewed byGuðbjartur Ólafsson, family physician and chief medical officer at Fjarlækningar
Skin problems are among the most common issues seen in primary care. They include eczema, psoriasis, acne, rosacea, fungal infections, allergic rashes, insect bites, and warts - different conditions that all have in common that they are visible on the outside of the body.
Symptoms are most often itching, redness, flaking, dryness, or a rash that spreads. Some clear up on their own within a few days, while others are chronic and come and go for years.
Skin problems are well suited to assessment in remote care, because the appearance of the skin is a major part of the evaluation. That is why a photo is always included with a skin case.
What can be resolved?
- Eczema, dryness, and itching
- Psoriasis that has already been diagnosed
- Acne and rosacea
- Fungal infections of the skin and nails
- Allergic rashes and contact dermatitis
- Insect bites and mild skin infections
- Warts and other clearly defined skin problems
When is the service not suitable?
- A mole or skin change that has grown, changed color or shape, bleeds, or causes itching.
- A wound that has not healed within four weeks, or a foot wound in a person with diabetes.
- Burns and bites from animals or humans.
- A rash that does not fade when pressed, together with fever.
- Redness that spreads quickly together with fever, or skin peeling after starting a new medicine.
- A skin problem that requires a sample, freezing treatment, or surgical removal.
General advice
Here is general advice on daily skin care that applies to most mild skin problems.
Moisturizer is treatment, not cosmetics
Even when the skin looks fine. Consistency matters more than the type.
A thin layer that is skipped between days does little good.
Washing and showers
Hot water dissolves the skin’s oils and leaves it drier than before.
Regular soap is alkaline and irritates skin that is already sensitive.
Rubbing with a towel irritates the skin unnecessarily.
Good advice
- Apply moisturizer immediately after a shower, while the skin is still damp.
- Keep nails short if you itch at night.
- Write down what you used and for how long — that helps with the assessment.
Things to avoid
- Scratching. Scratching breaks the skin and increases the risk of infection.
- Using steroid cream longer than advised, especially on the face.
- Switching creams frequently before the previous one has had time to work.
A rash that does not fade when pressed, together with fever, may be a sign of a serious infection. Do not wait - call 112.
The advice above is general and does not replace medical advice. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or do not go away.
Please note
Fjarlækningar handles simple, clearly defined issues. Some cases require an examination, testing, or emergency care - and are directed to another care pathway. In emergencies, call 112.
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