Eczema

Eczema is frequently linked to specific genetic, environmental, and immunological influences. The condition can be inherited—a family history of allergies or asthma may indicate someone is more prone to developing the condition.

Sufferers tend to have a highly sensitive immune system. Breakouts may occur when even the smallest irritants—including common household products, perfumes, dust, or animal dander—make contact with the skin, triggering an allergic reaction. Harsh soaps, solvents, and detergents sometimes contain chemicals that damage, dry out, or burn skin. Other people have a reaction to materials such as scratchy fabrics or carpet fibers.

Sudden, weather-related temperature and humidity changes may provoke eczema flareups. At other times, emotional stress and anxiety are believed to make the condition worse. Foods do not directly cause outbreaks, but consuming or touching specific food items may contribute to the problem.

The word “eczema” is derived from a Greek term meaning “to boil over.” This is an apt description of what the condition can feel like for a person living with it. The severity of symptoms varies from person to person, but eczema is generally characterized by dry patches of skin, which may feel raw.

Some people experience oozing lesions that become scaly, crusty, or hardened. Others notice inflammation, swelling, flakiness, or fluid-filled bumps. On darker skin tones, these flare-ups may look purple, grey, or a darker brown color. The flexors (crooks of the elbows and backs of the knees) are common places for rashes to occur, but patches may appear anywhere on the body.

Being aware of and in control of your surroundings is the key to reducing the severity of breakouts. Sufferers may keep a chart to write down possible items that worsen their symptoms. Managing eczema can involve incorporating daily lifestyle changes to avoid or get rid of elements that provoke flare-ups.

Knowing which environmental factors agitate your skin can help you cope with the challenges of eczema. Topical products such as lotions and creams that keep the skin hydrated may be prescribed to alleviate discomfort.

The South Jersey Skin Care & Laser Center team is very experienced when it comes to helping patients to manage eczema. Dr. Robin Levin can diagnose and provide proper therapeutic treatment, which may involve a combination of medications. During your appointment, she may examine your skin, discuss your medical history, and investigate possible triggers.

South Jersey Skin Care & Laser Center specializes in identifying, treating, managing, and potentially curing a large number of skin conditions that may impact South Jersey and Philadelphia-area patients. These include skin cancer, rosacea, acne, psoriasis, and more.