Feel comfortable in your skin: Tailored eczema treatments

While the exact cause of eczema is unknown, several factors are thought to contribute to it. These factors include genetic mutations, an overactive immune system, and family history. Additionally, numerous triggers are associated with eczema flare-ups. Common triggers include:

• Cleaning products, fragrances, harsh soaps, and other irritants
• Environmental factors like dry air, extreme hot or cold, and smoke
• Mold, pollen, animal dander, dust mites, and other allergens
• Poorly managed stress
• Sweat
• Synthetic, scratchy fabrics such as wool or polyester
• Dairy, peanuts, eggs, and other food choices or allergies

Patients with mild and severe eczema alike can benefit from a gentle cleansing and moisturizing routine. Dry skin is one of the biggest culprits. When your skin barrier is dry, it is more vulnerable to allergens and bacteria, which can exacerbate eczema symptoms. To remove potential irritants/triggers from the skin, bathe with lukewarm (never hot) water. Limit your time in the bath or shower. Immediately after your bath/shower, apply moisturizer to protect the outermost layer of your skin and prevent it from drying out. Patients should generally look for fragrance-free, soothing ointments or emollients that effectively lock in moisture. We can recommend specific products tailored to your unique skin.

There are numerous OTC and prescription medications to reduce existing symptoms and prevent future flare-ups. Hydrocortisone is a low-potency steroid cream, lotion, gel, or ointment that you can purchase at the drugstore. It helps with symptoms by reducing irritation, inflammation, and itching. Antihistamines work by reducing allergy symptoms by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released during an allergic reaction.

Prescription medications include topical steroids and non-steroidal drugs applied to the skin, and steroids or biologic drugs that are injected. Oral medications that may be prescribed include corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and non-steroidal janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. These various drugs work in different ways. Not all are appropriate for short-term use, and some are only prescribed for mild to moderate symptoms. In general, we must assess your symptoms and consider factors such as their severity and risk of recurrence when determining the best next steps forward.