9323 Pinecroft Dr Suite 202 The Woodlands, TX 77380
Relief for Dry, Itchy Skin
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes the skin to become inflamed, itchy, and irritated. It can appear anywhere on the body and can range from mild dryness to more severe, painful patches. At Rêve Dermatology and Aesthetics, we specialize in diagnosing and treating eczema with personalized care and advanced treatment options to help you manage your symptoms and improve the health of your skin.
What Does Eczema Look Like?
Eczema is a condition that affects the skin's barrier, making it difficult for the skin to retain moisture and protect itself from irritants. This leads to inflamed, itchy patches of skin. It can develop at any age, but it often starts in childhood. Eczema is not contagious, but it can be a long-lasting condition that flares up periodically.
Eczema can vary in appearance, but it typically looks like dry, red, and inflamed patches of skin. In some cases, the skin may become cracked, flaky, or even ooze. These patches can appear anywhere on the body, but they are commonly found on the face, inside the elbows, behind the knees, and on the hands and feet.
What Causes Eczema?
The exact cause of eczema is still not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Those with a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies are more likely to develop eczema. Common triggers include:
Dry skin: The skin becomes more vulnerable to irritation.
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Environmental factors: Exposure to irritants such as soaps, detergents, pollen, or animal dander can trigger flare-ups.
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Weather: Cold, dry weather can exacerbate eczema, while heat and humidity can trigger itching.
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Stress: Emotional stress is known to make eczema worse for some people.
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Infections: Certain infections, especially viral or bacterial, can trigger eczema flare-ups.
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Common Symptoms of Eczema
Eczema spots can appear anywhere on the body but predominantly occur on the face, neck, hands, or legs. With children, patches can appear on the inner creases of their knees and elbows. Once the skin is scratched, dry spots and open sores with crust could develop and can become infected. Eczema is typically characterized by the following:
- Red, dry, or itchy skin
- Persistent breakouts
- Pus-filled blisters
- Dry, cracked skin
- Skin thickening
- Skin sensitivity due to scratching
- Darkening of the skin surrounding the eyes
- Small, raised bumps
- Rash or swollen skin that varies in color
How is Eczema Diagnosed?
Diagnosing eczema typically begins with a thorough consultation and physical examination. During this process, we’ll:
- Review your medical history: This helps us identify any family history of eczema or allergies that may play a role.
- Examine your skin: We’ll assess the affected areas to determine the severity and type of eczema.
- Rule out other conditions: Eczema can resemble other skin conditions, so we’ll perform tests if necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Once we’ve diagnosed your condition, we can recommend a treatment plan to manage your eczema and reduce flare-ups.
Treatment for Eczema
Eczema treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, preventing flare-ups, and improving the overall health of the skin. For mild cases, over-the-counter options like hydrocortisone creams or antihistamines such as Benadryl can help reduce itching and inflammation. When eczema is more persistent or severe, stronger treatments like prescription steroid creams or immunomodulators may be recommended to calm inflammation and improve skin condition.
In some cases, oral corticosteroids or immunosuppressants may be prescribed, especially if the eczema is widespread and not responding to topical treatments. For persistent or difficult-to-treat eczema, ultraviolet light therapy (UVB therapy) can be an effective option, helping to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Laser therapy may also be used for more severe flare-ups, particularly if scarring or chronic irritation is an issue.
At Rêve Dermatology and Aesthetics, we provide expert care and personalized treatment plans designed to relieve your symptoms and improve your skin’s health. Let us help you manage your eczema and restore your skin's comfort and health!