Itchy, Irritated, and Inflamed? Let’s Talk Eczema

Eczema (aka atopic dermatitis) might not be contagious, but it sure can be persistent. If you’ve ever dealt with red, itchy, flaky skin that flares up seemingly out of nowhere, you know how frustrating it can be. Eczema affects people of all ages: babies, kids, teens, and adults alike. It’s not “just dry skin,” and it often requires more than just slathering on lotion. If you’ve been battling this condition, here’s what you need to know.

What Is Eczema, Really?

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects the skin’s natural barrier, making it more prone to irritation and moisture loss. The result? Skin that’s dry, itchy, inflamed, and more vulnerable to allergens and bacteria. Eczema often runs in families and can be triggered by many external and internal factors, which is why figuring out the root cause can feel like solving a mystery.

Common Triggers and Causes

Eczema isn’t caused by just one thing. In fact, multiple elements can contribute to flare-ups:

• Genetics: Eczema often runs in families and is linked to other allergic conditions like asthma or hay fever.
• Skin Barrier Dysfunction: When the skin loses its ability to retain moisture and keep irritants out, it becomes more prone to inflammation.
• Environmental Irritants: Think harsh soaps, detergents, fragrances, and even weather changes (hello, dry winter air).
• Allergens: Pet dander, dust mites, pollen, and certain foods can trigger flares in some individuals.
• Stress: Emotional stress can worsen symptoms or cause a flare-up.
• Heat & Sweat: Overheating or sweating can lead to more itching and irritation.

What You Can Do at Home

Eczema may not have a cure, but daily care and lifestyle changes can make a huge difference. Here’s how to calm and support your skin between flare-ups:

• Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize: Apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer at least twice daily, especially after bathing.
• Bathe Smarter: Use lukewarm (not hot) water and keep baths or showers short. Pat your skin dry and apply moisturizer immediately after.
• Use Gentle Products: Choose cleansers and laundry detergents that are free of dyes and fragrances.
• Stop the Scratch Cycle: Itching can make things worse. Use cold compresses, wear soft clothing, and consider over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream (for short-term use).
• Keep Cool: Heat and sweat are common flare triggers, so try to stay cool and dry when possible.
• Try an Oatmeal Bath: Colloidal oatmeal can help soothe itching and reduce redness.

When It’s Time to See a Dermatologist

If your eczema isn’t responding to over-the-counter products or home remedies, or it’s severely affecting your sleep or quality of life, it’s time to bring in the pros.

At Skin and Cancer Center of Arizona, we can help by:

• Pinpointing your specific eczema type (yes, there’s more than one!)
• Identifying potential allergens or irritants.
• Prescribing targeted treatments like:
  • Topical steroids or non-steroidal creams
  • Oral or injectable medications (including biologics)
  • Prescription moisturizers or barrier repair therapies

Eczema can be a lifelong condition, but with the right tools and support, you don’t have to let it run the show.

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