Eczema & dry skin treatment

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common type of dry skin condition that causes dryness, itching, and burning. Though anyone can develop eczema, the condition usually appears in the first five years of life and is often genetic.

Many factors can trigger an eczema flare-up – including stress, insect bites, or cosmetics. Eczema is a chronic condition that comes and goes over time. Symptoms can usually be managed effectively at home with eczema creams or topical steroids.

Types of eczema

Eczema comes in many forms. The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis.

• Atopic dermatitis: Red, itchy, or scaly rash that can appear anywhere on your skin but is common behind the knees or on your arms. This type of eczema is often hereditary.
• Contact eczema: Also known as contact dermatitis, this rash is caused by physical contact with skin irritants. The rash may burn and cause discomfort.
• Baby eczema: Often appears in infants under one year old and creates dry, itchy, and sensitive skin. Some children grow out of this skin condition, and for others, it comes and goes as they age (referred to as atopic dermatitis).
• Dyshidrotic eczema: Tiny, itchy, fluid-filled blisters appear on your palms, fingers, or the soles of your feet. Also called pompholyx, these blisters can last for several weeks and may be related to seasonal allergies.
• Nummular eczema: Also known as discoid eczema, this eczema rash includes red, swollen, or cracked circular patches over the skin.

Symptoms of eczema

Eczema symptoms differ for everyone. Dry skin, the hallmark symptom of eczema, can lead to itchiness and leave skin irritated and flaky. If you’re experiencing a rash and dry skin, look out for the following common eczema symptoms:

• Sensitive, dry skin
• Red, purple, or pink inflamed skin
• Severe itching
• Dark, leathery, or rough patches of skin

If left untreated, an eczema rash can sometimes lead to an infection. This is especially true if intense itching and scratching breaks your skin and allows bacteria to enter your bloodstream.

Signs of an eczema infection

See your doctor immediately if you feel you have any of the below symptoms of an eczema infection:

• Fever
• Open sores
• Oozing or crusting on dry skin patches
• Skin swelling or blisters

Psoriasis vs. eczema

Eczema can be confused for other skin conditions that cause skin rashes, such as psoriasis. With eczema, the rash can be intensely itchy, while a psoriasis rash may sting or burn. A psoriasis rash is also usually patchy, raised, scaly, and more inflamed than an eczema rash.

What is the underlying cause of eczema?

The exact cause of eczema isn't known, but it's believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. If you have a family history of eczema, it’s important to recognize potential triggers for your eczema so you can avoid them as much as possible.

You may notice being around cigarette smoke causes your eczema to flare up. It may also be caused by steamy showers, chemicals, or moisture-robbing routines – like drying off right after a shower without moisturizing first – or using certain soaps.

Other common triggers of eczema include:

• Allergens: Mold, pollen, animal dander, and food allergies such as gluten.
• Climate: Weather and temperature changes, including humidity, dryness, or cold.
• Cosmetics or fabrics: Irritating ingredients found in soaps, lotions, or certain fabrics like wool.
• Insect bites: Bee stings, mosquito bites, or ant bites.
• Mental health: Being stressed, anxious, or depressed.

Other medical conditions that cause inflammation and affect your immune system can also increase your risk of developing eczema. This includes allergies, hay fever, and asthma. Research shows that there’s a close connection between eczema and autoimmune diseases – if you have eczema, you’re at a greater risk of developing an autoimmune disease like Crohn’s disease or rheumatoid arthritis.

Will eczema go away?

There’s no cure for eczema. However, you may notice fewer eczema flare-ups and milder symptoms as you age. Identifying your triggers and sticking to your skin care treatment plan – like applying lotion daily – can help you manage and avoid eczema episodes.

Diagnosing eczema

In most cases, your doctor will refer you to a dermatologist to manage your eczema. First, they will ask about your health history and symptoms. They’ll examine your rash and might recommend tests, such as a patch test (allergy test) or a skin biopsy. This helps rule out any related medical issues that could be causing your skin discomfort.

Keeping a detailed diary of your symptoms is important – especially if your rash improves before your visit. Take photos of the rash and note any treatments you’ve tried. The more details you share with your care team, the better.

Eczema treatment options

Most cases of eczema can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) eczema creams, lotions, or ointments applied to the skin. Talk to your doctor if these OTC eczema treatment options don’t help.

While there’s no cure for eczema, there are eczema treatment options that can help reduce itchiness, pain, and prevent infection.

Eczema treatment typically involves topical medications like:

• Steroids to reduce inflammation and help your skin heal
• Immunomodulators to self-regulate your immune system
• Antibiotics to treat any infection that has occurred
• Antihistamines to help relieve itching

Eczema phototherapy, also called light therapy, is sometimes used if the eczema doesn’t respond to topical eczema treatments.

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