Over 30 million Americans experience eczema, and this common condition causes a red, itchy, rough skin inflammation. While there isn’t a cure for eczema, your dermatologist can prescribe topical ointments and lotions to provide relief from the uncomfortable symptoms.

Causes

Eczema usually manifests in children; however, it can occur at any age. Although the exact cause of eczema isn’t known, dermatologists believe it could be caused by several factors, including your genes and environment as well as dry skin. There are several types of this condition, including atopic, contact, seborrheic, and stasis dermatitis as well as dyshidrotic and nummular eczema.

Depending on the type of eczema you have, you may have a unique set of triggers. Although triggers don’t cause eczema, they agitate the skin, causing the symptoms to flare up. For example, washing your hands with a harsh chemical soap may irritate your skin, causing itchy patches to appear on your hands and wrists.

Symptoms

An eczema rash or breakout is usually itchy, red, dry, and scaly. For babies, atopic dermatitis often strikes the scalp and cheeks; with toddlers, it’s more common in the creases of the elbows, knees, and neck. Scabies, a type of mite that burrows under the skin, could cause eczema in the webbing between the fingers, in the armpits, or around the midsection.

Treatment

While there isn’t a cure for eczema, there are several steps you can take to relieve discomfort and minimize breakouts. Bathe regularly in lukewarm water as its temperature won’t irritate sensitive skin. Wash with a mild soap, like Dove® or Aveeno®. Soaps with heavy scents or strong chemicals can inflame and worsen sensitive skin. Wear loose, light fabrics like cotton, linen, chambray, or rayon, which won’t scratch and aggravate the skin. Use a humidifier in the bedroom to put more moisture into the air while you sleep and keep the skin better hydrated.

If these home remedies aren’t soothing your symptoms, contact the knowledgeable dermatologists at Kailua Dermatology Associates in Hawaii. Dr. Philip D. Hellreich, MD, and his team offer skin care solutions for a variety of conditions, including eczema, acne, and psoriasis. Using the latest industry techniques, such as UVB light treatments, they’ll get to the root of your concerns and restore your skin to its natural glow. Learn more about their services online, or call (808) 261-6133 to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist.