Eczema is a chronic skin condition most often characterized by red, scaly, itchy, and inflamed patches on the skin. The most common form of eczema is atopic dermatitis, and the terms are often used interchangeably. Atopic dermatitis symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and distressing, and affect people of all ages.
What Causes Atopic Dermatitis?
Unfortunately, there has been no single cause identified for atopic dermatitis. It is believed to be at least partly due to genetics, as it is more common in individuals with a family history of eczema, allergies, or asthma. Environmental and immune factors also play a role.
Eczema is often mistaken as an auto-immune disorder, but this is not quite the case. In auto-immune disorders, your own immune system attacks healthy cells. In the case of atopic dermatitis, the immune system is overreacting to outside irritants that cause inflammation.
Atopic dermatitis can affect anyone from babies to the elderly, and typically presents as a series of flare-ups and remissions. Symptoms are worse during flare-ups and improve during remission. Eczema can manifest in various ways such as intense itching, dryness, redness, increased rashes, and thickened skin. Environmental triggers, such as irritants, allergens, and climate changes, can also contribute to flare-ups.
Eczema on the Face Treatment Options
Facial eczema can be distressing as well as painful. Treatment includes a comprehensive approach that aims to both soothe symptoms and prevent future flare-ups.
- Moisturization: Regular and proper moisturization helps maintain the skin’s natural barrier and prevents dryness.
- Avoid Triggers: Identifying and avoiding triggers like certain fabrics, harsh soaps, allergens, and irritants can reduce the frequency of flare-ups.
- Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter or prescription creams containing corticosteroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory ingredients can help manage inflammation and itching.
- Prescription Medications: In cases of severe eczema, a dermatologist may prescribe stronger topical medications, oral antihistamines, or immunosuppressive drugs.
- Wet Wrap Therapy: This technique involves applying wet bandages over moisturized skin to enhance hydration and soothe itching.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Stress management, maintaining a balanced diet, and staying hydrated can contribute to overall skin health.
In addition to the face, atopic dermatitis also commonly affects the hands, ears, feet, and anywhere with skin folds. No matter where you are experiencing eczema symptoms, please contact a dermatologist so they can determine the best treatment plan.
Schedule Your Eczema Consultation today
If you have eczema, schedule a consultation with Advanced Dermatology’s expert dermatologists, who are trained for exploring the best treatment options for you. Contact us to book your appointment at one of our north shore Chicagoland offices in Lincolnshire or Glencoe.
