Category Archives: Eczema

In addition to your body, hands, and face, eczema can also plague the scalp, usually in a condition known as seborrheic dermatitis. There is some disagreement among experts about whether or not seborrheic dermatitis should be considered a form of chronic eczema or a separate skin condition, although the National Eczema Association considers it to be a type of eczema. (Eczema is a general term that includes a variety of conditions that causered, inflamed skin.)

"Seborrheic dermatitis is a common form of chronic eczema on the scalp associated with a fungi," says Gil Yosipovitch, MD, professor of medicine at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and author of Living With Itch ($19; amazon.com).

In addition to the scalp, seborrheic dermatitis may also affect parts of the face (such as the nose), the back, ears, or center of the chest. It strikes parts of the body with many oil-producing (sebaceous) glands, leading to symptoms such as redness, flakes, and patches of greasy, swollen-looking skin.

Unlike atopic dermatitis, a chronic form of eczema that is thought to be caused byan abnormal immune reaction,seborrheic dermatitisdoesn't usually cause severeitching. However, you can be diagnosed with bothseborrheic dermatitisand atopic dermatitis at the same time.

RELATED: 5 Reasons Why You Have an Itchy Scalp

Experts aren't sure exactly what causes seborrheic dermatitis. Genetics might make you more susceptible, and hormones, stress, or other triggers may lead to an overactive immune response that causes symptoms like red, painful, flaky skin to appear. A fungus called malassezia also plays a role. (This same fungus has been linked to dandruff, which is considered to be a mild form of scalp seborrheic dermatitis.)

Seborrheic dermatitis can usually be treated with medicated shampoos that contain tar, zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole. Leave the shampoo on for five or 10 minutes before rinsing it off. At first, you may want to use it several times a week, then use it once a week if symptoms improve.

Ross S. Levy, MD, chief of dermatology at Northern Westchester Hospital Center in Mount Kisco, N.Y. and an associate clinical professor of medicine at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, tells us you can also have a separate type of eczema without the presence of seborrheic dermatitis. "It can be difficult to differentiate," he says. This type is contact dermatitis, and is triggered by a reaction to an irritating substance on the scalp (think: hair dyes or scented hair products).

Short-term use of topical corticosteroids made for the scalp may help. "They come in solution form. You can put a drop into your scalp, or more," says Dr. Levy. "Its more like a gel, almost like a mousse. Those are good for purely calming down the inflammation."

But for both contact dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis, it's important not to itch your scalp: hair loss can occur with either condition.

"If theres enough irritation you can get hair loss," Dr. Levy cautions. "You can scratch and irritate your scalp, enough that can kill off the hair so you can lose hair."

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Eczema on Your Scalp? Here's How to Ease the Symptoms - Health.com

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Because eczema is often used as an umbrella term for a group of chronic, itchy skin rashes, a simple definition of the skin condition is hard to come by. Many people with eczema develop dry, itchy, red patches of skin. In some forms of eczema, blisters develop. Scratching can inflame the rash and cause weeping of clear fluid. Over time, the affected patches of skin can thicken. Eczema can look different depending on the type of rash and where it appears on the body. Symptoms typically flare up for a period of time and then calm down before surfacing again. More than 30 million Americans have some form of eczema. While the exact cause is unclear, a combination of factors, such as genes, environment, and immune system are thought to play a role.

Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of the skin condition, and its usually what people are referring to when they talk about eczema. About one in five children develop atopic dermatitis, often in infancy and usually by age 5. (Only a small percentage of adults develop this type of eczema.)

Dry, scaly, red, and itchy patches can appear on the face, scalp, hands, or feet; inside the elbows; or behind the knees. In more severe cases, these patches crack and crust over, and they can become infected. Atopic dermatitis comes and goes, with periods when symptoms are worse and other times when the rash goes into remission and disappears. It tends to occur in families with a history of this eczema, hay fever, or asthma. It can be a lifelong condition, although some children outgrow it or see symptom improvement as they age.

With this type of eczema, itchy, fluid-filled blisters develop under the skin on the hands or the feet, especially palms, soles, or sides of the fingers. Patches of flaky, red skin can develop. Over time, the affected skin can become thick and cracked.

Dyshidrotic eczema (also called pompholyx) may be aggravated by stress or frequent or long periods of contact with water. Working with certain metalssuch as chromium, cobalt, or nickelcan trigger symptoms. It is more common in women, and there is a higher risk if you have had atopic dermatitis (eczema) or allergic rhinitis (hay fever). It tends to occur in spring and summer and in warmer climates.

Round or oval areas of itchy, inflamed sores are the hallmark of this type of eczema, which is also called nummular dermatitis or discoid eczema.

Clusters of tiny pimples form plaques, or patches, that become scaly. One or more areas of the skin, usually on the arms and legs, can be affected. It is more common in older males, but young women can get it, too. Nummular eczema tends to occur in people with dry skin, especially in winter. Like other types of eczema, symptoms can come and go. New patches may form where there was injury to the skin (such as an insect bite). Keeping skin moisturized can help prevent future flare-ups.

RELATED: What The Night Of Gets Right (and Wrong) About Eczema

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How do you know a rash is eczema and not psoriasis or another skin condition? Eczema is usually accompanied by uncontrollable itching that worsens when you scratch it and can interfere with sleep. People sometimes scratch until they bleed, yet itching persists, and the wound becomes vulnerable to infection.

The signs and symptoms of eczema can vary from one person to the next.

Atopic dermatitis, the most common type of eczema, usually strikes in childhood. Babies tend to develop a red rash on their cheeks and scalp that turns dry and scaly. The rash can bubble up, ooze, and crust over. In young children, other body sites may be affected, such as the inside folds of the elbows or knees, or the hands, wrists, or feet. Over time, these patches can lighten or darken, and they may become thick and bumpy and constantly itchy.

Dyshidrotic eczema typically strikes the hands and feet. People with this type of eczema develop small, fluid-filled blisters that itch and burn. The blisters weep, crust over, and crack, exposing the skin to painful infection.

Nummular eczema produces pimples or blisters that leak fluid and form crusty, coin-shaped patches on the legs, arms, hands, feet, or torso. It occurs more often in the winter months.

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While the exact cause of eczema is unknown, scientists believe its a product of your genes and the environment. Eczema risk is greater in children whose parents had eczema or a condition like asthma or hay fever.

Usually the skin serves as a shield against toxins, bacteria, and allergens. With eczema, that protective barrier dries out and is easily breached by irritants in the environment. Exposure to household products (such as soap, detergent, or fragrances) or to allergens (dust, pollen, or pet dander) may trigger eczema symptoms.

Other factors that may cause asthma symptoms to flare include stress and anxiety; cold or dry weather; dust, sand, or pollution; and wearing wool or synthetic fibers.

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Eczema typically produces a red, itchy, scaly rash, but exact symptoms can differ from person to person. What eczema looks like may depend on the type of eczema. Eczema rash can affect different body parts, from the scalp to the toes. Some people may develop a patch or two of inflammation, while others have multiple lesions. Eczema symptoms can range from mild to severe.

Atopic dermatitis, the most common type of eczema, usually begins in infancy or childhood. The first sign of eczema in babies is often red cheeks. In children, eczema usually appears in the inner folds on the elbows and knees. Dyshidrotic eczema is more common in young adults. It produces fluid-filled blisters on the hands and feet. Older men are more likely to develop nummular eczema, which produces distinctive circular or oval patches of blistered, scaly rash.

A red, itchy rash across the cheeks and chin is often the first sign of atopic dermatitis (eczema) in infants. Eventually, the rash begins to ooze and crust over, and drooling can worsen symptoms. Eczema rash may improve or disappear as children get older, although some people continue to experience flare-ups as adults. Treatment for mild eczema on the face may include topical ointments or creams as well as moisturizers.

Dry, chapped, and itchy skin on the hands that doesnt improve with moisturizer may be a sign of hand eczema. Symptoms can include red, itchy, inflamed skin with blistering that can lead to oozing, crusting, and cracking. People who have their hands in water all day or work closely with irritants such as detergents or solvents are more likely to develop this type of eczema. If you had atopic dermatitis as a child, you may also have a higher risk of developing hand eczema. Applying a cream after washing hands or wearing gloves may help protect hands from future flare-ups.

Eczema in babies can spread to other body parts, including the scalp. It is red, itchy and crusty. This is different from cradle cap (also known as seborrheic dermatitis), which produces redness and white or yellow flakes on the scalp. Treatment for scalp eczema may include a topical ointment applied to the rash.

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Theres no single test for diagnosing eczema. Your doctor or your childs pediatrician will conduct a physical exam. Some patients may be referred to a dermatologist or allergist. Doctors look for typical signs and symptoms of eczema, such as itching and rash.

The difficulty is often ruling out other conditions that cause irritating skin symptoms. Atopic dermatitis, for example, may be confused with seborrheic dermatitis (a common condition that mainly affects the scalp), while nummular eczema may resemble ringworm (a contagious fungal infection). Sometimes a skin patch test or allergy test may be required to confirm an eczema diagnosis by ruling out other conditions.

Expect your doctor to ask about your family history of allergic disease, since eczema can run in families. Kids with eczema can also go on to develop food allergy, hay fever (also known as allergic rhinitis), and asthmausually in that order (this is sometimes called the atopic march).

Tell your doctor when symptoms first appeared, how often you or your child experiences symptoms, other body parts that are affected, whether the problem comes and goes, and when it seems to flare up. Your doctor may ask about any allergies you or your child have and potential triggers of symptoms.

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Unfortunately, theres no single magic bullet to get rid of eczema. But there are a number of treatments and strategies for relieving symptoms, reducing inflammation, and preventing flare-ups. These include ointments and creams that are applied to the skin, oral antibiotics or antihistamines, and an injectable medication.

Restoring moisture is crucial for preventing symptom flare-ups. Soaks and wet wraps can soothe pain and itching. Prescription and over-the-counter moisturizers can help repair dry skin and keep it hydrated.

Steroid ointments and creams have long been the go-to remedy to clear up eczema rash. These topical treatments (also called corticosteroids) can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms during a flare-up. But they are not recommended for long-term use due to serious potential side effects. Topical steroids come in different strengths, so if one doesnt do the job, your doctor may switch to a more potent version.

Newer non-steroidal medicines called calcineurin inhibitors are another option. These drugs include Elidel (pimecrolimus) cream for mild-to-moderate eczema and Protopic (tacrolimus) ointment is approved for moderate-to-severe symptoms.

Eucrisa (crisaborole) ointment 2% is another option for eczema patients 2 years old and older. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in December 2016, Eucrisa inhibits an enzyme that promotes inflammation.

The newest weapon against eczema, approved in March 2017, is Dupixent (dupilumab) for adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. It is administered as an injection under the skin and is intended for people whose eczema is not controlled by topical therapies or for whom topical treatment isnt recommended. The active ingredient in Dupixent is an antibody that blocks a protein that causes inflammation.

Light therapy (also called phototherapy) using a special device that emits ultraviolet light is an option for clearing difficult-to-treat eczema and rashes that are dispersed across the body.

Topical products containing coal tar or antihistamines may be prescribed for itch relief.

An antibiotic may be given to treat bacterial skin infections. Diluted bleach baths are sometimes used to treat baby eczema that results in frequent infections. (Be sure to consult your doctor first for specific instructions.)

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If you suspect eczema, see a doctor who can diagnose the condition and recommend treatments to heal the rash and prevent future flare-ups.

Eczema requires a lot of self-care. Youll need to recognize and avoid triggers, including allergens and other skin irritants. Keeping skin moisturized and avoiding temperature extremesheat that makes you sweat or low humidity that zaps the skin of moisturemay be important strategies for managing eczema.

There might be times when you or your child must seek additional advice and follow-up care. Consult your doctor about making dietary changes if your or your childs symptoms, medical history, and diagnostic testing suggest that food allergies may be an eczema trigger. You should also see a doctor right away if signs of infection are present. Patches of eczema with yellow crusting or pus-filled blisters, or areas around the patches that are red, hot, swollen, and painful may signal that skin is infected.

Report any change in the severity of eczema symptoms. And if a prescribed treatment doesnt seem to be working, contact your doctor about adjusting your medication.

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Atopic dermatitis, the most common type of eczema, often develops before age 1, and 90% of people who have it get it by age 5, reports the American Academy of Dermatology.

Baby eczema can look different from eczema in children or adults. In the first six months of life, babies may develop red, oozing rashes on the scalp and face, especially the cheeks, chin, and forehead. Later in infancy, eczema rash can pop up on elbows and knees.

To manage baby eczema, it is important to know what may trigger a flare-up of symptoms. Common triggers include pollen, pet dander, dust, smoke, soap, shampoo, certain foods, infection, and wool or synthetic fabric.

Having a good bathing and moisturizing routine can keep your babys skin hydrated. Heres what the American Academy of Dermatology recommends:

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Eczema is not contagious. You cannot get it from someone or spread it to other people. Although scientists dont know exactly what causes eczema, the current thinking is that its your genes and the environment that set the stage for the condition.

However, having eczema may expose the skin to bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, which can spread to other parts of the body or to others through skin-to-skin contact.

Dry, cracking skin creates an entryway for foreign invaders. Scratching itchy eczema patches can also introduce infection. In either case, when infection sets in, eczema can worsen and become more difficult to treat.

Fever, oozing, and pus-filled blisters may be signs of infection.

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Eczema Overview, Symptoms and Treatment - Health.com

Eczema is incredibly common, and about30 million people in the United States are affected by some form this frustrating skin condition. Butit's not always so easy to understand how to care for your eczema. When so many substancesmay trigger an eczema flare(the long listincludes certain fibers, scented detergents, pollen, pet dander, and much more)how do you deal?

There are multiple types of eczema, but the condition is generally characterized by a red, itchy,inflammatory skinreaction, saysJoshua Zeichner, MD, a dermatologist and Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research at Mount Sinai Hospitals Department of Dermatology. "Eczema is a condition in which the skin cannot protect itself from the environment and, as a result, becomes inflamed," he says. "The outer skin layer develops microscopic cracks in it and loses hydration, leading to disruption of the skin barrier."

While your doctor may have more tailored advice based on the type of eczema you have and your specific symptoms, Dr. Zeichner says one of thebest ways to ease symptoms ofeczema is to improve hydration and reduce inflammationboth of which start with great self-care. Here, dermatologists explain exactly how to care for your sensitive eczema skin at home.

RELATED: 10 Home Remedies for Eczema

A person with normal skin might get by moisturizing their skin every so often, but people with eczema likely need toslather on lotion a lot more often, perhaps as much as multiple times a day. "While some areas of the body may develop rashes, all of the skin may be dry and weak because of genetics if you have eczema," Dr. Zeichner explains. "While we cannot change your genes, we can compensate for them." He suggests looking for a body moisturizer that contains ingredients like petrolatum, such asVaseline Intensive Care Advanced Repair Unscented Lotion ($9; walmart.com), which will form a protective seal over the outer skin layer to prevent water loss and help the damaged skin barrier repair itself.

You might enjoy extremely hot showers, but your eczema skin does not. "Hot water can strip the skin of essential oils, and the longer the exposure, the worse off we are,"Dr.Zeichner says. "Stick to short showers of less than 10 minutes, with lukewarm water." He adds that "lukewarm" means that watershould be around the temperature you might expect from a heated pool.Test it before you step in; if the water feels hot immediately as it touches your skin, lower the temperature.

"Oil-based products are the best way to add moisture back into the skin and create a barrier to retain it," says Dendy Engelman, MD, a dermatologic surgeon at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Centers in New York City. She's an advocatefor the "soak and grease" method:"I use a two-step process, an in-shower oil and lotion, followed by lotion to trap moisture in." Apply your out-of-shower lotion or oil immediately after stepping out.

Your skin needs extra TLC, so Dr. Zeichner recommends the most sensitive sunscreens to protect yourself from harmful (and drying) rays. "Especially if you have sensitive skin or eczema, your skin may be more at risk from allergies or irritation from the sunscreen ingredients," he explains. "While baby sunscreens are designed with kids in mind, they are effective in adults, as well, and may be appropriate for people with dry, irritated skin." Dr. Zeichner says baby sunscreens typically only contain mineral-based ingredients, which are less likely to aggravate your skin.A good pick:Neutrogena Pure and Free Baby Sunscreen SPF 60+ ($12; target.com).

Many soaps and body washeshave harsh ingredients thatcan disrupt the skin's barrier, or scents that may aggravate eczema symptoms.Instead, Dr. Zeichner recommends choosingcleansers that contain gentle ingredients, such as colloidal oatmeal. Hes a fan of Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Wash ($15 for 2; amazon.com).

Another option: Dr. Engelmanrecommends Cetaphil RestoraDerm($19; target.com). And as a general rule, "[a]void harsh soaps with fragrances, glycolic acid,salicylic acid, and retinols that can further irritate the skin by drying them out," she says.

People with eczema may want to invest in a good humidifier, especially during the drier winter months. "Arid environments can put stress on already dry skin," Dr. Zeichner says. "A cool-mist humidifier in your bedroom will add moisture to the air, so your skin does not have to work as hard to maintain hydration." Why cool mist? Dr.Zeichner says this type of humidifier is safer than a hot-steam model, which can burn your skin if you get too close to it.

If you're takingultra-gentle care of your skin and your eczema symptoms are still impacting your daily life, see a dermatologist. A dermatologist can help you pinpoint the exact cause of your eczema, as well as suggest stronger treatment options that may help ease symptoms."There are a variety of prescription barrier-repair creams and new medications, both topically and systemically, that can treat this condition," says Dr. Zeichner.

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7 Skin Self-Care Strategies Everyone With Eczema Should Be Doing - Health.com

June 16, 2017 Micrograph of a heart with fibrosis (yellow) and amyloidosis (brown). Movat's stain. Credit: Nephron/Wikipedia

For the roughly 7 percent of adults who live with atopic dermatitis, a common form of eczema, a new study reports a little good news: Despite recent findings to the contrary, the skin condition is likely not associated with an increase in cardiovascular risk factors or diseases.

"In our study, people who reported having atopic dermatitis were not at any increased risk for high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, heart attacks or strokes," said lead author Dr. Aaron Drucker, an assistant professor of dermatology at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and a physician with the Lifespan Physicians Group.

The findings appear in the British Journal of Dermatology.

Drucker and a team of co-authors made the findings by analyzing the records of 259,119 adults aged 30-74 in the Canadian Partnership for Tomorrow Project. Drucker led the data analysis with the hypothesis, suggested by two recent studies, that people with atopic dermatitis (AD) would be significantly more likely to have various cardiovascular problems.

Instead, he found that the opposite was the case.

A diagnosis of AD was associated with somewhat reduced risk of stroke (0.79 times the odds), hypertension (0.87 times), diabetes (0.78 times) and heart attack (0.87 times). Drucker emphasized, however, that he does not believe that AD is protectivegiven the mixed evidence accumulated by researchers, the best conclusion is that AD is likely not positively associated with cardiovascular disease.

"It's important to make this clear so it doesn't get misinterpreted: Even though we found lower rates of these outcomes with atopic dermatitis, we are not interpreting that as atopic dermatitis decreasing the risk," he said.

The findings are based on a statistical analysis that accounted for confounders including age, gender, ethnic background, body-mass index, smoking, alcohol consumption, sleep, physical activity and asthma.

The suspicion that AD might be associated with cardiovascular disease has likely arisen from the better-substantiated association researchers have found between the skin condition psoriasis and cardiovascular disease, Drucker said. But while the two inflammatory skin ailments share some clinical similarities, he said, they work differently at the molecular level, which might explain why only one may be associated with cardiovascular disease.

"In response to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease discovered for psoriasis, clinicians and psoriasis patients have been encouraged to more actively screen for and manage cardiovascular disease," Drucker said. "It appears that similar measures may not be warranted for atopic dermatitis."

Drucker acknowledged that the study could not answer the question of whether AD severity might correlate with cardiovascular disease. He said he is pursuing that question in new research, though there is a paucity of datasets that include both severity information and cardiovascular disease diagnoses.

Explore further: Vitamin D levels not linked to asthma or dermatitis

More information: British Journal of Dermatology (2017). DOI: 10.1111/bjd.15727/full

Vitamin D supplementation is unlikely to reduce the risk of asthma in children or adults, atopic dermatitis, or allergies according to a new study published in PLOS Medicine by Brent Richards, of McGill University, Canada, ...

(HealthDay)Atopic dermatitis (AD) is associated with increased risk of alopecia areata (AA) and vitiligo, according to research published online Jan. 18 in Allergy.

(HealthDay)Evidence that wet wrap therapy (WWT) is more effective than topical steroids for the treatment of atopic dermatitis is mixed, according to a review published online Nov. 8 in the British Journal of Dermatology.

(HealthDay)Children aged 4 to 9 years with atopic dermatitis and with frequent use of emollients have increased urinary levels of low-molecular weight (LMW) phthalate metabolites and parabens, according to a study published ...

Superficially, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis may appear similar but their commonalities are only skin deep. Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is primarily driven by an allergic reaction, while psoriasis is considered ...

There's a typical "career" for some allergic people, and it starts very early on the skin: babies develop atopic dermatitis, food allergies may follow, then comes asthma and later on hay fever. A group of scientists led by ...

Scientists at the University of Notre Dame have found that exposure to just 10 minutes of light at night suppresses biting and manipulates flight behavior in the Anopheles gambiae mosquito, the major vector for transmission ...

An international team of scientists has identified several genetic mutations that, should they arise, could potentially allow the avian influenza strain H7N9 to spread between humans. The findings are published in PLOS Pathogens.

A plant found throughout Southeast Asia traditionally used to treat arthritis and rheumatism contains a potent anti-HIV compound more powerful than the drug AZT, according to a new paper published in the Journal of Natural ...

Each year, invasive fungal infections sicken an estimated 2 million people worldwide and kill nearly 800,000 - but a team of international scientists have discovered a new approach for antifungal drug treatments.

Cryptococcus, a type of fungi found worldwide that is responsible annually for upwards of 625,000 deaths, was likely originally spread across the globe in conjunction with continental drift, according to a report by the Translational ...

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common infections, and they tend to come back again and again, even when treated. Most UTIs are caused by E. coli that live in the gut and spread to the urinary tract.

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"Dont scratch" is probably one of the bestand worstpieces of advice an eczema patient can receive. The skin condition, which is causedby an abnormal immune reaction that results in dry, red, cracked patches of skin, is only made worse by itching. Your nails damage the skin barrier, which then ramps up inflammatory molecules that exacerbatethe itch, explains Jonathan Silverberg, MD, PhD, assistant professor of dermatology at Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago. Whats more, chronic scratching may make you more susceptible to infections, since it's easier for bacteria to invade the crackedskin.

But heres the rub: itching an eczema rashfeels good. "Scratching induces a short term pain response that suppresses the itch," says Dr. Silberberg. "Patients feel the short-term gain, but dont realize how it actually harms skin." Your best way to dampen down the itchis to see your doctor for treatments, prescription or over-the-counter, thataddressthe underlying problem that causes the itch. Although it may not be possible to stop itching once and for all, here are eightstrategies that may help you keep your hands off.

Jeffrey S. Fromowitz, MD, a dermatologist in Boca Raton, Florida recommends holding an ice cube or cool compress on the itchy area. "The cold stimulus interrupts the bodys feeling of itchiness and can help break the itch-scratch cycle," he says.

One way to control the itch is by using a psychological tool called "habit reversal." As a 2011 studyof itch management strategies for atopic dermatitis (the most common form of eczema, which occurs in allergy-prone people)points out, scratching can become a conditioned responseone you might not even be aware youre doing. With habit reversal, you recognize the habit, think about times youre most likely to scratch, then consciously do something different when the itch arises. For example, if you notice that you often scratch while you watch TV, have something to keep your hands busy during that time, such as usinga stress-relief ball, an adult coloring book, orfidget spinner, or simplyclenching your fists.

While an underlying genetic issue isthe likely culprit in causingatopicdermatitis, certain things in the environment can make symptoms worse.Not everyone has the same eczema triggers, but a fewcommon ones include heat or cold, certain fabrics like wool, allergens like dust or pet dander, and scented skincare products or detergents.Dr. Silverberg notes that it'simportant to recognize these factors so you can avoid themor ininstances where you cant, then preemptively treat them.

Stress and anxiety are eczema triggers for many people. "Higher levels of inflammatory chemicals such as the stress hormone cortisol worsen inflammation, which makes eczema more severe,"explainsDr. Fromowitz. Knowing that certainsituationstend to leave you feeling especially fried and frenzied(and brainstorming a keep-calm plan for such times) can help keep the condition under control. A few tried-and-true strategies: meditation, yoga, getting plenty of sleep, and exercise.

Hot water might feel good in the moment, but it can ultimately worseneczema by releasing itch-inducing compounds, says Dr. Fromowitz. Instead, use lukewarm water, which is less likely to exacerbate sensitive skin. And while youre in there, stick to a mild, unscented soap (perfumed products can irritate). After you towel off, apply a liberal amount of moisturizer to hydrateand repair the skin's barrier.

RELATED: 9 Things You Should Never Do If You Have Eczema

The repetitive act of slathering on a nice lotion before bed can be soothing for your skinand mind, says Dr. Silverberg. Also, realize that you may not be able to stop the itch in its entirety, and therefore try not to be frustrated if the sensation to scratch is distracting when youre trying to doze off. "That frustration can aggravate the itch and make it even harder to fall asleep," he says.

Although some people with eczema wear gloves to prevent themselves from scratching, Dr. Silverberg points out that they might have the reverse effect, since they can make hands sweatyand sweat can make skin feel itchier.A better option than gloves if youre a mindless scratcher: keep nails as short and smooth as possible. "If you do scratch, you wont create quite as much damage," Dr. Silverberg says.

Still struggling with persistent itch? You may want to consider light therapy (also calledphototherapy), which uses ultraviolet light topenetratethe outer layers of skin totamp down inflammatory cells, and thus, itching.

"Its incredibly safe, but the downside is that its time-consuming," says Emma Guttman-Yassky, MD, PhD, Vice Chair, Department of Dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York."Patients have to go two to three times per week for several months, and you start to see results after four weeks."

For patients who have difficult-to-treat eczema,Dr. Guttman-Yassky recommends phototherapy as part of a combination treatment plan alongside moisturizers and topical steroids in order to clear up the condition and hopefully ease itch.

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How to Stop Itching Your Skin If You Have Eczema - Health Magazine - Health.com

I was five years old when the first patches of eczema started appearing on my skin, but it would be another five years before I was officiallydiagnosed. At first, no one knew what the rash was. Even the doctors weren'tmuch help; they prescribed me all kinds of creams, but nothing worked. When I look back now, Im not sure if the doctors were stumped,or if they simply were havingtrouble communicating with my mother (at the time, her English wasn'tvery strong).

When the medications didn'twork, my mom tried home remedies. She would rub aloe vera on my skin, and I vaguely remember drinking something that was made of seeds.Neither worked. It wasn'tuntil I was 10 years oldat which point the patches had spread to my arms, legs, and facethat I sawa dermatologist, who gave me a shot. I cant remember what the shot was; the memory is kind of fuzzy, but I do recall that my skin got better afterward. I also left with a prescription for cortisone cream and the name of the condition that had been plaguingme for years: eczema.

My eczema was bad when I was young, but my middle-school years weremuch worse. There were times during my childhood when my skin would calm downand the condition would seem to be dormant. But once I enteredfifth grade, it was constant. Cortisone cream helped the itch, but it couldn'tstop the redness from spreading.I was young and active, and Id sweat in the hot California temperatures, which further aggravated my skin.

My classmates didn'thelp, either. I tried to wear pants as much as possible, but they still noticed my eczema and made fun of me. Girls would even try to fight me. I stuck up for myself, but it wasexhausting, andby the time I entered8thgrade, I couldn'ttake it anymore. Instead of going to class, I started skipping school to go to the beach alone. I didn'ttell anyone, not even my foster parents. I had probably missed about a semesters worth of days when I was finally caughta social worker came to visit me at school and realized I wasn'tthere.

The guidance counselor called me into her office. I knew she wasn'thappy with me, but I was shocked at her lack of compassion. When I told her I was skipping school because kids were teasing me about my skin, she refused to believe it. She also didn'tbelieve that I was alone all day, and kept asking, Where were you, really? Who were you with?I knew she was trying to imply that I was doing something wrong. Then she asked me what was around my mouth. Eczema, I told her. Again, she didn'tbelieve me. It was only when my foster mother came to the school and confirmed it that she finally backed down.

Once I got to high school, my situation improved. I transferred to a different school and joined the track team, which gave me a sense of unity. I was a little worried about wearing shorts at first, but my teammates were nice about it. When they saw my skin, they were worried about me! They were like, Are you okay? They were more curious than anything.

At one competition I went to, I ran into a girl I used to go to middle school with. The first thing she said when she saw me was, Oh wow, your skin looks so much better.

RELATED: 5 Things You Should Never Say to Someone With Eczema

I'm now 32and work inpublic relations. Its kind of stressful at times, because a big part of my job involves shaking hands with people and socializing. Theres a constant battle going on in my head whenever I meet someone new. I think, Are they going to notice my skin? Will they think Im contagious?

These days, I'm able to disguise my eczema pretty well, but I still have the occasional flare-up. Last year, in fact, I had a lot going on at work, and had just returned from the Dominican Republic when I noticed patches of redness on my fingers. I didn'teven realize it was eczema at first. The skin was peeling off, and it looked different from what was on my arms and legsalmost like ringworm. My doctor ran some tests, but when the results came back negative,he looked at my medical history and concluded that it was hand eczema.

Now, I try to be extra cautious. Stress is a big trigger for me, so I try to manage it the best I can. And things are different now that Im older. As a kid, I didnt have anyone I could talk to about my skin, but now that Im an adult, I can share my feelings with my close friends. It makes everything better when you talk about it with others.

As told to Maria Masters

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I Grew Up With Severe Eczemaand It Was Exhausting - Health.com

Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, is a skin treatment thatharnesses the power of ultraviolet (UV) light to ease severe eczemasymptoms.It can be a potent weapon in the arsenal of treatments for people with difficult-to-treat atopic dermatitis, the most common type of eczema. But while light therapy can help improve symptoms, italso comes with risks.

Light therapy is generally reserved for adults and adolescents with widespreadeczema symptoms, or for those whose atopic dermatitis is not respondingto first-line treatments(such as gentle moisturizers or topical steroids). The treatment involves emitting UV light from special medical therapy lamps, and can helpreduce inflammation and itch. About 70% of people see an improvement insymptoms after light therapy, according to the National Eczema Association.

Narrowband ultraviolet B (UVB) light is the type of phototherapy usually recommended for the treatment ofatopic dermatitis, but there are also other types, such as UVA1 and broadband UVB phototherapy.

"Some may say [light therapy]is time-consuming because it includes many treatments and visits to the doctors, but its results are unrivaled," said Kim Nichols, MD, a Greenwich, Conn., dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon. "A successful response returns the skin to a normal appearance."

RELATED: 9 Things You Should Never Do If You Have Eczema

Still, light therapy isnot a panacea for every eczema sufferer. And experts stress that people with atopic dermatitis should speak totheir doctorabout the benefits and risks of this treatment first.

"We dont necessarily like to put people into it unless theres nothing else thats keeping them controlled," says Jon Hanifin, MD, professor of dermatology at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland.

For such patients, Dr. Hanifinusually puts themon an immunosuppressantmedication such ascyclosporinefor a limited period of time (cyclosporine can have worrisome side effects)until their skin isnt "all thickened and red and scratched." He then tapers them off the treatment while theyre building up their ultraviolet treatments with the goal of stopping inflammation.For these people, he explains, light therapy can be a bridge to healthier skin."UV is really good for them," he says. "But its not for everybody."

As with ultraviolet radiation from the sun, light therapy has risks. The most obvious is that exposure to UV radiation can produce genetic mutations that eventually lead to skin canceror, in rare cases,melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.Men whose genitals are exposed to UV light may be at risk for genital cancer. Light therapy can prematurely age the skin, especially in people who are fair-skinned.

Patients typically wear goggles during light therapy sessions to guard against eye damage. Treatment can also cause burning, stinging, and redness.

Dermatologists are mindful of these risks, which is one reason why light therapy for atopic dermatitis is given in controlled doses, usually two to three times a week, and generally under physician supervision.

Link:
The Risks and Benefits of Light Therapy for Atopic Dermatitis - Health.com

Dr. Valerie Goldburt

New York, NY (PRWEB) June 14, 2017

The wet look is in. At least, that seems to be the case for treating the delicate skin of babies who have eczema, according to dermatologist, Valerie Goldburt, MD, PhD, with Advanced Dermatology PC. The importance of maintaining moisture in the skin of eczema patients has been long noted, Dr. Goldburt said. In an April 3, 2017 article, Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis Treatment and Management, published on the professional medical web site, Medscape, authors emphasized the importance of keeping eczema-affected skin hydrated. This is an optimal method for improving the skins resiliency against irritants and allergens in the environment. Hydration also maximizes the effects of topical therapies in the treatment of eczema, Dr. Goldburt said, citing the article.

Referred to as atopic dermatitis, eczema is a rash that makes the skin dry, scaly, and itchy. It frequently forms on the scalp or face, particularly on the cheeks. The non-contagious disorder affects 10-20% of children worldwide, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Both genetic and environmental factors cause atopic dermatitis, and we are still learning how these elements affect the immune system in pediatric skin, said Dr. Goldburt. We know this disorder runs in families. Maternal age at babys birth, the area of residence, and even gender with girls more likely to develop eczema these all appear to play a role.

Dr. Goldburt concurs with the authors of the Medscape article that infants with eczema be given lukewarm baths, no more than 10 minutes long, using only mild, unscented soaps. Baby shampoo can be used for eczema on the scalp, Dr. Goldburt said.

She advised parents who notice a rash appearing in their newborns or infants to contact a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and advice. Not everything is eczema, she stated.

Parents can get upset, thinking their newborn is developing atopic dermatitis, only to find out the baby has cradle cap, a common condition affecting the scalp and face and, sometimes, the neck, ears, or even armpits, Dr. Goldburt explained. The condition, which causes redness and scaly patches on the skin, is related to overproducing oil glands and will clear up on its own when the babys glands settle into a more natural routine.

Cradle cap does not cause any discomfort and is best treated by shampooing babys hair, she said. For infants who are diagnosed as having eczema, dermatologists can devise a treatment plan that will control itching, reduce skin inflammation, loosen and remove scaly skin lesions, prevent new ones from forming, and clear up potential infection, she said.

To help parents manage their infants eczema, Dr. Goldburt offers the following tips:

Skin is the largest organ in our body and the main barrier between us and the environment. Thats why good skin care is the most important thing parents can do for their child with eczema, Dr. Goldburt said.

Valerie Goldburt, MD, PhD, is board certified and specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology at Advanced Dermatology P.C.

Advanced Dermatology P.C. and the Center for Laser and Cosmetic Surgery (New York & New Jersey) is one of the leading dermatology centers in the nation, offering highly experienced physicians in the fields of cosmetic and laser dermatology as well as plastic surgery and state-of-the-art medical technologies. http://www.advanceddermatologypc.com.

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When Treating Eczema in Babies, the Wet Look is In - PR Web (press release)

Since summer is synonymous with sunscreen, sweat, and splashing around in salt water and chlorine, it can often also mean skin flare-ups especially for those with eczema , the skin condition that causes patches of cracked, scaly skin.

Many people are well aware that eczema tends to flare in the winter, but it can flare even in the summertime, Sejal Shah , a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, tells Allure . The culprits? Everything from sweaty subway rides, to romping around in the sand to sticking to your strict sunscreen routine .

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In light of the fact that were officially in the heat of summer, we asked expert dermatologists how to fight an eczema flare-up without breaking a sweat.

Increased sweating in the summer can definitely make your eczema flare up, particularly if you have it in the creases of your elbows or knees or on your palms, Erin Gilbert , M.D., Ph.D., celebrity skin expert, tells Allure . Avoid being outdoors when the sun is most steamy. If you cant give up those outdoor runs or park picnics or escape a sweaty commute, wipe away sweat as it accumulates, then wash thoroughly and apply a moisturizer once you cool off, says Shah.

Another good trick is to put cornstarch or talc-free baby powder on areas where you tend to accumulate sweat to keep your skin drier, says Gilbert. I like Burts Bees Talc-Free Dusting Powder. Keep a sweat fighter in your bag to nix the need for extra washing-up on the go.

When your skin is ultra sensitive, you should switch up your sunscreen routine (not skip it). I like fragrance-free sunscreens for eczema prone patients because they tend to be better tolerated, says Shah. She recommends Juice Beauty SPF 30 Tinted Mineral Moisturizer, Blue Lizard SPF 30+ Sensitive Sunscreen and Mustela Broad Spectrum 50+ Mineral Sunscreen Lotion. For a post-sun moisturizer, try First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream , Cerave Cream , or Aveeno Eczema Therapy Cream .

If your skin is sensitive or eczema prone, its really important to rinse chlorine off as soon as possible, says Gilbert. It can irritate and dry out your skin, making a flare more likely. Hit the showers, STAT.

Whether youre swimming, sweating or showering more than usual (because of said swimming and sweating), make sure youre lathering on more lotion than ever. Look for moisturizers that contain skin-protecting and hydrating ingredients such as purified petroleum, Joshua Zeichner , M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, tells Allure . More than others, these formulations will form a protective barrier between your skin and the harsh summer elements. While traditional products were heavy and greasy, the newest formulations are quite light and easy to spread, Zeichner says. He recommends, Vaseline Intensive Care Advanced Repair Fragrance-Free Lotion . For something a little lighter, Gilbert recommends Cerave Daily Moisturizing Lotion .

Even if youre taking the steps above to treat your eczema-prone skin this summer, you might still experience frustrating patches that just wont go away, says Shah. Rather than forgo your collection of shorts and sundresses to cover any outbreaks, bring in the big guns and see your derm for a prescription treatment like a topical steroid or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory cream.

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5 Ways To Stop Eczema From Ruining Your Summer - Allure Magazine

It is estimated that around 60% of people in the UK currently suffer or have suffered from a skin problem at some point in their lives and, for many of these people, the cause is likely to be eczema. Affecting the upper layer of the skin, eczema causes itching, inflammation and blistering which, for many, can become life-limiting.

One woman who knows this all too well is Emily Honeywell, chronic eczema sufferer and founder of Harvey & Mills luxury sports wear. We caught up with Emily to hear about how she left a job in the city to start a business that helped heal her skin.

Emily Honeywell

Emily Honeywell

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Having suffered from eczema since she was born, Emily tried everything to manage her inevitable flare ups.

"Since I can remember, I had eczema all over my face and legs my mum even made a tiny pair of silk gloves to stop me from itching when I was a baby. As a teenager, I was very self-conscious and didn't show my legs for years. I'd only ever wear skirts with thick opaque tights, which irritated the hell out of me.

"Like most dry skin sufferers I know, I tried everything under the sun. Olive oil baths, all sorts of emollients, a cocktail of steroid creams but nothing worked for long. I soon realised that the main irritant was any situation where there was moisture sitting on my skin, and tight clothing meant that it was unable to breathe. The skinny jeans phase was terrible for me!"

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Starting work in an office environment where she was able to wear what she wanted, Emily relished the freedom to wear loose clothing that did not aggravate her skin. However, going to the gym was a different story.

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"Exercise is like an antidepressant to me, and I was frustrated that whether I was in the middle of hot yoga or a street dance class, working out would trigger my eczema cycle. Even if I showered immediately after, the moisture sitting on my skin under stretch fabric for even an hour was enough to trigger a flare up that lasted for days."

"I loved the growing trend of replacing jeans with active wear, suitable for both badminton and brunch. So one Saturday last summer (2016), I spent the morning searching for leggings online. The active wear sets I already had were so thick and plasticy, but even after scouring the internet I couldn't find anything that was more breathable.

"I also found the sportswear world saturated with either brash bright prints or uninteresting dark colours that weren't my style at all.

It was that same morning that I decided to quit my job, and create active wear that is both high fashion and high performance, responsibly sourced, and most of all suitable for sensitive skin."

Having pooled her life savings to establish a budget, Emily set to work buying and personally testing all sorts of sports wear over the course of a few months.

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"I hated having eczema but now I've made a career out of it" - Netdoctor