Eczema is often associated with severe itch and can be an issue for people of all ages.
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis or winter’s itch, is a chronic inflammatory condition of the skin. It is a skin disorder that can be associated with severe itch. It can affect all ages, and many parts of the body, such as arms, legs, eyelids, and hands.
With infants, eczema typically occurs on the face, scalp, torso, and extensor surfaces of arms/legs. For children and adults, it usually shows up on flexural surfaces of arms/legs and hands.
Many people may “grow out of” the condition, however eczema may wax and wane for many years.
Although most patients have a genetic background that predisposes them to eczema, there are certain environmental triggers that can make it worse.
Avoiding the triggers below can help prevent eczema, but we also have treatments to alleviate the disorder. The most important first step in treatment is to understand that dry skin worsens eczema. People should avoid very hot showers, use a humidifier in the winter, and liberally use moisturizing creams and ointments.
The winter brings with it dry air, which can dry the skin and worsen eczema.
Some people develop eczema after coming in contact with certain allergens – most commonly poison ivy, nickel in metals, preservatives and fragrances.
Scratching can also make eczema worse. Most dermatologists describe it as the “itch-scratch cycle,” which can lead to a downward spiral because scratching the rash actually makes the itch worse.
The most common medication used by dermatologists is topical corticosteroids. These come in many different strengths and formulations, which include easy to apply lotions, and more moisturizing creams or ointments.
The stronger corticosteroid topical medications are not safe for certain areas, such as the face, armpits and groin. There are alternative medications that are safe for these areas.
Sometimes the differences between the medication strengths and formulations can make all the difference in improving eczema safely and rapidly. One of the newer products, Avene Xeracalm, is an emollient lotion that works specifically to soothe dry, itchy skin. Many patients have found relief using this in combination with Avene Thermal Spring Water, which was developed specifically for sensitive skin with a variety of inflamed conditions.
