UNDERARMS

Common problems: Intertrigo (an inflammatory condition due to persistent irritation from heat, sweat or friction), skin tags and hyperhidrosis (increased sweatiness).

Treatment: For intertrigo, the rashes which occur can be treated with topical steroids. Skin tags can be removed by snipping them off or through electric therapy.

Hyperhidrosis can be treated with absorbent powders, anti-perspirants, Botox injections or surgery.

Prevention: Keep underarms cool and dry, use anti-perspirants, avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing and control your weight or diabetes.

With regard to hyperhidrosis, Dr Derrick Aw, a consultant in the University Dermatology Clinic at the National University Hospital, said: "Stress and emotional stimuli may exacerbate sweating, so being able to manage stress and emotional stimuli, especially anxiety, may be helpful."

ARMS

Common problems: Eczema and psoriasis.

Treatment: These can be treated with steroid creams as they help to reduce inflammation. If you have a severe case of either condition, phototherapy or oral medication may be used.

Prevention: Dr Gavin Ong, a registrar at the National Skin Centre (NSC), said: "Both conditions can recurr. Eczema sufferers usually have dry skin and this predisposes them to outbreaks. That is why moisturising the skin is important and is integral to eczema management."

FEET

Common problems: Tinea pedis or athlete's foot, viral warts, corns and callosities, and eczema of the skin on the feet.

Treatment: Athlete's foot can be treated with regular application of anti-fungal creams.

Treatment for viral warts include applying liquid nitrogen or passing an electric current through them. Corns and callosities can be physically or chemically worn down or treated with topical medicines. For feet eczema, the underlying problem, for example varicose veins, has to be treated; topical steroids can reduce the inflammation.

Prevention: Dr Heng Yee Kiat, a registrar at NSC, emphasised the importance of well-fitting footwear and good foot hygiene.

This article was first published in Mind Your Body, The Straits Times.