Eczema (Dermatitis)
Eczema, or dermatitis, can severely disrupt our daily lives due to its annoying itch, uncomfortable appearance, and feel, and it can even cause sleep problems. Fortunately, we have many tools to improve skin function, decrease itching, reduce infection, and help manage the condition. At Burt & Will Plastic Surgery and Dermatology, we will spend time with you to get to know your struggles with your skin and find a solution. With a consultation at our Burr Ridge or Plainfield dermatology offices, we will determine which type of eczema you have and develop an eczema treatment plan utilizing therapies that work with your lifestyle.
What Is Eczema?
Eczema, or dermatitis, is a general term we use for rashes where the skin appears red, dry, scaly, and itchy. This condition can be caused by inherited issues with the skin, environmental factors, or underlying medical conditions. Eczema often flares up due to allergens, irritants, stress, or changes in temperature and humidity. During a flare-up, the affected skin may become cracked, inflamed, and prone to infection if not properly managed.
Eczema Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of dermatitis vary from patient to patient. They include:
- Itchy inflamed areas of skin
- “Sensitive skin” that does not tolerate many lotions or products
- Cracked and scaly skin
- Small raised bumps that may leak fluid over the fingers
- Red to brown rashes in the skin creases
- Pink flaky eyelids
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What Causes Eczema?
Genetic Factors
Some people are more likely to develop eczema due to inherited genetic traits. If you have a family history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever, your skin may naturally lack certain proteins or lipids that help maintain a strong barrier. This makes the skin more susceptible to dryness, irritation, and infections. Genetics can make the skin less able to retain moisture, leading to the dry and itchy patches that are typical of eczema.
Immune System Dysfunction
When the immune system overreacts to harmless substances, it can trigger inflammation in the skin, leading to eczema flare-ups. Instead of protecting the body from harmful bacteria or viruses, an overactive immune system mistakenly sees normal environmental triggers as threats. This heightened immune response leads to the redness, itching, and swelling associated with eczema as the body attempts to fight off these perceived irritants.
Allergies
Allergies to common substances like pollen, pet dander, dust mites, or certain foods can cause eczema symptoms to appear or worsen. The skin reacts to these allergens, which leads to inflammation and irritation. People with eczema may find that their skin becomes even more sensitive to external allergens, triggering flare-ups in areas that were previously unaffected. Managing allergies is often part of controlling eczema symptoms.
Environmental Factors
Everyday environmental elements, such as cold weather, low humidity, and pollutants, can dry out the skin and trigger eczema. Exposure to harsh ingredients can strip the skin of its natural oils. This leaves the skin more vulnerable to irritation and increases the likelihood of flare-ups.
Stress and Other Emotional Factors
Emotional stress doesn’t directly cause eczema, but it can make symptoms worse. Stress leads to the release of certain hormones that can weaken the skin’s barrier and increase inflammation. As the skin becomes more irritated, it triggers a cycle where the itching and discomfort from eczema increase stress levels, which in turn exacerbates the condition.
Where Does Eczema Occur?
- Face: Eczema on the face often appears on the cheeks, forehead, or around the eyes. It can cause redness, dryness, and itching, and requires gentle, hydrating products for effective eczema face treatment.
- Scalp: Scalp eczema causes irritation, flaking, and itching along the hairline or across the scalp. Medicated shampoos and creams are often recommended for scalp eczema treatment.
- Hands and Feet: Eczema on the hands and feet can lead to dry, cracked skin, making daily activities uncomfortable. Moisturizing and protecting the skin from irritants can help you to manage flare-ups in these areas.
- Elbows and Knees: The creases of the elbows and knees are especially prone to eczema due to trapped sweat and friction. Keeping the skin clean and moisturized can help reduce irritation in these areas.
- Neck: Eczema on the neck is often triggered by sweat or friction from clothing. Calming creams and soft fabrics can help soothe and prevent flare-ups.
Types of Eczema
While to the untrained eye all eczema may look similar, there are a variety of different types. Your dermatologist can help with differentiating what kind you or your loved one has as a first step.
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common form of eczema that affects children, typically starting within the first two years of life. As an infant, AD rashes occur all over the body, and as kids grow it tends to localize to skin folds or the hands. Genetics can play a role, and often patients with atopic dermatitis go on to have asthma and seasonal allergies.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Our bodies can develop allergies to items in the environment, leading to allergic contact dermatitis. The most common scenario is with poison ivy, where the skin gets very itchy 24-48 hours after the initial exposure. At other times this association can be less obvious. We can help sort out what could be triggering the rash.
Irritant Hand Dermatitis
There are household and chemical products in the environment that contribute to eczema not as a true allergy, per se, but due to their abrasive nature. The exposures can break down our natural skin layers, bringing about inflammation and leading to hand dermatitis.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is a type of rash that affects the scalp (commonly termed dandruff), but also shows itself as rashes on the face and chest. The skin will appear pink with a waxy, flaky texture.
Nummular Dermatitis
This form appears as round, flaky rings on the skin, sometimes referred to as “coins.” Nummular dermatitis can be mistaken for ringworm (which is a fungal infection) but it requires a different treatment entirely.
Complications of Eczema
Occasionally dermatitis can have a secondary infection that is on top of the rash itself. Eczema-affected skin tends to be cracked and more porous, making it susceptible to infections that penetrate the skin.
Bacterial Infections
When bacterial infections occur on top of eczema, the skin tends to look yellow with crust and can be weepy. The skin can become red, warm and inflamed, and occasionally patients will develop a fever. A common type of bacteria that does this is staphylococcus aureus, which can be treated with antibiotics.
Viral Infections
The herpes virus (aka the cold sore virus) can also grow on top of eczema-affected skin. This is termed “eczema herpeticum,” and can be widespread on the body. Similar to cold sores on the lip, eczema-prone skin that has a herpes infection on it may look like grouped, fluid-filled bumps.
What Triggers Eczema Breakouts?
Weather Changes
Shifts in weather, particularly during seasonal transitions, can lead to eczema flare-ups. Cold, dry air in winter can strip the skin of its natural moisture, causing dryness and irritation. Hot, humid weather can increase sweating, which can also aggravate the skin. Keeping the skin hydrated and protected during these shifts can help manage breakouts.
Skincare or Makeup Products
Certain skincare or makeup products, especially those containing fragrances, alcohol, or harsh chemicals, can irritate sensitive skin and trigger eczema. Using products formulated for sensitive skin, free of irritants, and designed to lock in moisture can help reduce the risk of a reaction.
Sweating
While sweating is a natural bodily function, it can irritate eczema-prone skin in certain situations. It’s a good idea to shower or rinse off after heavy sweating and wear breathable fabrics to reduce irritation and help your body stay dry during exercise or other activities.
Exposure to Allergens or Pollutants
Environmental allergens like pollen, pet dander, or dust mites, as well as pollutants, can trigger eczema breakouts. These irritants can worsen inflammation and cause flare-ups. Regular cleaning of living spaces and avoiding direct contact with known allergens can help prevent reactions.
Excessive Bathing
Frequent or long hot showers can dry out the skin, stripping away its natural oils. This leaves the skin more vulnerable to eczema flare-ups. Using lukewarm water, limiting shower time, and applying moisturizer immediately afterward can help maintain skin hydration.
Dietary Triggers
Certain foods, such as dairy, eggs, nuts, or gluten, may trigger eczema in some individuals. While not everyone is affected by diet, identifying and avoiding specific triggers can help reduce flare-ups. Keeping a food diary can be helpful for recognizing patterns between diet and skin reactions.
Emotional Upsets
Stress or strong emotions like anxiety and frustration can exacerbate eczema symptoms. Emotional stress can cause the body to release hormones that increase inflammation, making the skin more reactive. Practicing stress-relief techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, may help reduce the frequency of flare-ups tied to emotional upsets.
Who Can Be Affected By Eczema?
Children and Teens
Eczema is common in children and often appears during infancy, with symptoms such as dry, itchy patches on the cheeks, arms, or legs. While some children outgrow eczema, many continue to experience flare-ups during their teenage years, especially during periods of stress or exposure to triggers like harsh skincare products or allergens. Managing mild eczema in children typically involves moisturizing the skin and avoiding known irritants.
Adults
Although eczema is often associated with childhood, many adults also experience flare-ups. Adult eczema may develop in areas like the hands, feet, neck, or eyelids and can be provoked by many of the triggers mentioned above. The condition may also be linked to other skin sensitivities or allergies that become more noticeable as people age. For adults, daily moisturizing and trigger management are common ways to keep eczema under control, but additional professional treatments may be needed in some cases.
Elderly
As the skin naturally becomes drier and thinner with age, eczema can become more frequent and harder to manage in elderly patients. In some cases, eczema may develop for the first time in older age. The skin’s reduced ability to retain moisture and heal from irritation can make breakouts more prolonged. Gentle skincare routines that focus on hydration, finding triggers, and additional strategies can be used to manage eczema in the elderly.
How Do We Diagnose Eczema?
Diagnosing eczema begins with an examination of your skin where we look for signs like dryness, redness, or inflammation. We also take into account your medical history and any patterns related to your flare-ups. In some cases, we may recommend allergy testing to identify potential triggers that could be worsening your condition. While there’s no single test for eczema, a combination of these approaches helps us create a clear picture of your skin’s health and the factors contributing to your symptoms.
What to Expect During Your First Appointment
During your first appointment, we’ll ask you a series of questions to understand your experience with eczema. These may include when your symptoms started, how often you experience flare-ups, and whether certain factors like stress, diet, or weather seem to worsen your condition. We’ll also ask about any past treatments you’ve tried and how effective they’ve been. This information helps us to build a treatment plan that is more personal to you and your situation.
Eczema Treatment for Plainfield, Naperville and Burr Ridge Patients
The breadth of treatment options continues to evolve, with new research constantly giving us new medications and insight into our understanding of eczema. Our physicians at Burt & Will Plastic Surgery and Dermatology pride themselves on keeping pace with these changes to give you the best care available. Depending upon the type of dermatitis that you have, you may be recommended one or a combination of the following treatments:
Prescription Medications Applied on the Skin
Topical eczema cure medications are those you apply on the skin and are available as creams, foams, lotions, ointments and even solutions. Generally, these have anti-inflammatory properties and help put the fire out of an angry, inflamed rash. The main topical classes for these medications are topical steroids, calcineurin inhibitors (Elidel and Protopic) and PDE4 inhibitors (Eucrisia). The key is picking what’s practical and safe to help your specific type of eczema.
Systemic Agents That Calm Down Inflammation
When topicals are not practical or simply aren’t doing the task, there are pills and biologics (specialized medications that target individual cell products) that can help out.
- Dupixent (dupilumab): a biologic medication FDA approved for atopic dermatitis. This blocks certain proteins that lead to inflammation and can significantly decrease eczema and itching.
- Prednisone: a steroid pill that can calm the skin down. This is usually used in the short-term as a “taper” to avoid any long-term side effects.
- Immunosuppressants: methotrexate, cyclosporine, and mycophenolate mofetil are older oral medications that block certain inflammatory pathways. These typically require lab work to ensure safe administration.
Home Treatments and Regimens
Knowing the right strategies at home can be half the battle. We will help clarify what’s helping or hurting in your daily routine, and recommend specific over-the-counter products that complement the prescription medications you may need. He can incorporate alternative therapeutic approaches as well. Additionally, there are certain techniques in which he has expertise.
- Wet Wraps: a treatment commonly used for children with stubborn eczema where moist gauze is wrapped around medicated creams to heal the skin.
- Light Treatment (Phototherapy): certain wavelengths of light, such as narrowband UVB, have anti-inflammatory properties and help with dermatitis
Treating Secondary Infections
As reviewed above, bacterial and viral infections can occur on the skin in addition to eczema and dermatitis. Treating these is important to prevent the spread of the infection, and can be done either with antibiotic creams or oral antibiotics, depending upon the type of infection. Certain eczema compounds, such as the Aron’s formula, also incorporate treating infections and eczema on an ongoing basis.
Using Diet to Treat Eczema
Though diet alone won’t cure eczema, what you eat can sometimes trigger or worsen symptoms. Dairy, for example, contains proteins that some people’s bodies react to, leading to skin inflammation. Gluten, found in wheat and related grains, may be problematic for those with sensitivities or celiac disease, potentially worsening skin conditions. Nuts can also trigger allergic reactions, which in turn, can lead to skin irritation.
Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet may help support skin health. Leafy greens like spinach and kale are packed with antioxidants that help reduce inflammation in the body. Berries, rich in vitamins and antioxidants, can also combat oxidative stress, which may contribute to skin irritation. Omega-3-rich fish like salmon and mackerel contain healthy fats that can help strengthen the skin’s barrier and reduce inflammation. These dietary changes work best when combined with other eczema treatment strategies, and we can guide you through identifying food triggers and incorporating skin-friendly nutrients for better results.
Lifestyle Modifications for Managing Eczema
Small adjustments in your daily routine can make a big difference in managing eczema. Pay attention to the products that your body responds best to, choosing products that are fragrance-free and hydrating. Turn down the temperature of your shower and stay in for a shorter amount of time. You should also try not to scratch or otherwise irritate your skin. Always practice good hand hygiene, washing them each time you come home and applying moisturizer.
Tips for Exercising With Eczema
Staying active is a key part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but for those with eczema, sweat, friction, and heat can sometimes aggravate the skin. We exercising, we recommend that you:
- Wear breathable, loose-fitting clothing: Opt for soft fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials to reduce friction and allow sweat to evaporate quickly. Tight clothing can trap sweat and irritate the skin, so it’s best to avoid it.
- Stay cool during your workout: If you’re exercising indoors, choose a well-ventilated area or use a fan. For outdoor activities, avoid peak heat hours and try early morning or late evening workouts when it’s cooler.
- Moisturize before and after: Apply a lightweight, fragrance-free moisturizer before exercising to protect your skin’s barrier. After your workout, gently cleanse your skin with lukewarm water and reapply a thicker moisturizer to lock in hydration.
- Use gentle cleansers: After exercising, use a mild, soap-free cleanser that nourishes your skin while also keeping it clean. Harsh soaps can worsen dryness and irritation, making post-workout care even more important.
- Avoid excessive rubbing: When drying off after your workout, pat your skin with a soft towel rather than rubbing it. Rubbing can cause further irritation and aggravate eczema-prone areas.
- Hydrate frequently: Drink plenty of water during and after exercise to keep your skin and body hydrated. Dehydration can make eczema worse, so restoring hydration after exertion is essential for overall skin health.
Find Solutions for Your Dry, Itchy Skin
With the right eczema treatment, it’s possible to reduce flare-ups and keep your skin feeling more comfortable and hydrated. Whether you’re dealing with facial eczema, scalp irritation, or other common symptoms, we offer some of the best treatments for eczema in the Burr Ridge area. To learn more about our treatments at Burt & Will Plastic Surgery and Dermatology or to schedule a consultation, contact us through our online form today or at (815) 267-0231. We serve Hodgkins, Willowbrook, Darien, Palisades, Hinsdale, Bridgeview, Oak Brook, Downers Grove, and more.