What is Eczema?
Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a chronic itchy skin condition that affects roughly 9.6 million children and 16.5 million adults in the United States. This itchiness can lead to dry skin and is made worse by scratching. Commonly affected are the backs of elbows and knees, hands, and face. Eczema is related to asthma and allergies, and often other family members may be affected. There is currently no cure for eczema but with proper treatment it can be managed.
At-Home Management
Maintaining a healthy skin barrier is a key in treating eczema. Following these steps will provide relief for many people at home:
- Start with use of non-soap cleansers, such as CeraVe or Cetaphil. Children with eczema may be bathed daily or every other day.
- A regular moisturization routine with thick creams or ointments should be applied daily within two minutes after bathing. Many of our patients prefer Vaseline, Aquaphor, CeraVe cream, or Cetaphil cream.
- Use fragrance-free items. Data suggests all Free Clear is the gentlest laundry detergent. Avoid dryer sheets and fabric softeners.
- If itching becomes bothersome, consider oatmeal baths (such as the product by Aveeno), nighttime oral antihistamines such as Benadryl, and CeraVe itch relief cream—a non-steroidal option that helps immediately when applied.
One Patient’s Story
Recently I had the pleasure of treating a patient who agreed to share his story and pictures, in the hopes of helping others in a similar situation. This is a teenager who has had eczema for most of his life. At-home care was not enough, and he had tried several different prescription creams and ointments. Despite ups and downs, his skin was never clear.
We initiated him on an advanced therapy called Dupixent, and at his 6-week follow-up appointment there was remarkable improvement. In times like this I frequently hear “I forgot how bad it was!” when I show the “before” pictures. We joked that he would have to take up a new hobby due to all the time saved by not scratching his skin!
Leg Before Treatment
Leg After Treatment
Arms Before Treatment
Arms After Treatment
Your Skin. Our Mission.
This is one example showing that clearer skin is possible. Whether it is for eczema, psoriasis, or any other skin concern, our goal at Dermatology Associates of Lincoln is to help you achieve the healthy skin you deserve in a safe, quick, and cost-effective manner. Call our office today at 402-413-7460 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.