Smooth, clear skin is a desire for most people who want to preserve their youth. When eczema is present, it can be painful and unsightly and it can put a damper on a person’s social life and confidence. An estimated 1.6 million Americans suffer with this condition, so it is important to know that you are not alone and that there are several treatment options available to heal the condition. Eczema can be described in two different ways. It can be used widely to describe any skin rash or it can be used in reference to atopic dermatitis which is a chronic skin condition that starts early in life and can continue through to adulthood – although some people have been known to outgrow the condition. Atopic is a term to describe immune diseases that cause skin irritation – eczema is one of them.

The cause of eczema is still unknown, but it has shown to be somewhat connected to heredity or genetic factors. There are several environmental factors that can cause eczema symptoms to flare up including irritants, allergens, hot and cold temperatures, inflammatory foods, hormones and more. It is important to know that eczema is not just a skin condition, it can impact many other areas of your life and your overall well-being.

Finding relief for eczema can be a delicate process. We recommend sticking to a skincare regimen designed for sensitive skin. Eczema is very reactive to fragrant soaps, detergents or ingredients like retinol or AHA. In addition, the correct topical steroids or other treatments need to be on hand in case of a flare up. Eczema requires major moisturizing because it is a condition that causes extremely dry skin. We recommend moisturizing several times a day to keep your skin moist. There are several topical over the counter treatments, but there are also effective solutions such as medication, light therapy or laser treatments that can provide fantastic relief for patients. If you are suffering from eczema, the medical team at Kwan Dermatology can help manage your eczema with the latest technology and treatments available, customized to fit your unique needs.