Eczema Specialist

What is eczema?

Eczema is a group of skin conditions that typically causes patches of red, itchy skin and rashes. It commonly appears on the elbows and knees but can develop on the face, arms, legs, back, and hands, too.

Eczema often appears in childhood and fades with age, but for some people, it persists into adulthood. Flare-ups of eczema come and go, depending on your exposure to triggers.

What are the symptoms of eczema?

Eczema is most often characterized by itching, red skin. You may notice:

• Dry, sensitive skin
• Dark patches of skin
• Leathery and scaly patches
• Oozing or crusting sores

Eczema can be incredibly uncomfortable but cannot be spread from person to person.

What are common types of eczema?

Eczema can show up in different ways. The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis. This form happens when your skin is unable to maintain its natural moisture barrier and protect you from irritants that cause eczema symptoms. Contact dermatitis results when you come in touch with a trigger, like a certain type of cloth or chemical. Other forms include:

• Seborrheic dermatitis, which occurs on the scalp
• Dyshidrotic eczema, which shows up as small, itchy blisters on the fingers, toes, palms, and soles of your feet
• Nummular eczema, which looks like itchy, coin-shaped spots that form on the skin
• Stasis dermatitis, which appears as inflammation around varicose veins

The doctors at Hill Country Dermatology carefully consider your symptoms to determine the type (or types) of eczema you are experiencing. 

What causes eczema?

The exact reason why some people develop eczema isn’t fully understood, but it’s likely the result of one or more of the following:

• Genetics
• Skin sensitivity
• Abnormal functioning of the immune system
• Environmental triggers

Environmental triggers don’t cause eczema but can stimulate your immune system and result in flare-ups. Common culprits include chemicals, beauty products, detergents, soaps, cigarette smoke, and pet dander. 

If you’re prone to eczema, flare-ups can also result from prolonged time in water, failing to moisturize regularly, or a dry climate.

How is eczema treated?

The doctors at Hill Country Dermatology take time to help you understand how to best care for your sensitive, eczema-prone skin and avoid aggravating triggers. Over-the-counter products help in mild cases, but some people require prescription creams or gels to manage outbreaks.

Some people benefit from taking oral immunosuppressants to help control flare-ups. They’ll work with you to identify triggers so you can minimize discomfort.

If you or a loved one struggles with eczema, make an appointment at Hill Country Dermatology to get relief. Call one of the offices today or use the online tool to set up an appointment.