Managing Your Eczema

Eczema isn’t curable, and people who suffer from it usually go through remissions or symptom-free periods as well as flare-ups, when their symptoms suddenly appear. It primarily causes itchy and dry skin that when left unaddressed could lead to rashes, inflammation, weepy skin, and blisters. In addition, fungal, viral, and bacterial infections could develop since eczema compromises your skin barrier.

But because there’s still no cure for eczema, the main aim of treatment is the reduction and management of symptoms when they appear. Here at Advanced Desert Dermatology, in both our Thunderbird Rd. and Lake Pleasant Parkway locations in Peoria, AZ, Dr. Vernon Mackey offers various eczema treatment regimens depending on the severity of your case.

Topical Medications for Treating Eczema

The go-to, standard eczema treatment that usually works for many people is topical corticosteroids. When applied to the affected areas, corticosteroid ointments, lotions, or creams can minimize inflammation and reduce allergic reactions. They can likewise decrease itchiness and alleviate soreness and irritation. TCIs or topical calcineurin inhibitors such as Elidel and Protopic may also be prescribed to manage eczema symptoms. These work by minimizing flare-ups and controlling inflammation by suppressing your immune system.

Oral Medications for Eczema

If you have widespread symptoms, your doctor may likewise recommend that you take an oral antihistamine like diphenhydramine, doxylamine succinate, or hydroxyzine. This medication will also help make it easier for you to sleep at night without scratching. If you develop a skin infection due to your eczema, your doctor may also prescribe antifungal, antiviral, or antibiotic medications to address it. Additionally, you may be prescribed an oral immunosuppressant if you have an especially severe case of eczema.

Home Treatments for Eczema

Aside from treatments prescribed by our dermatologist in our Thunderbird Rd. and Lake Pleasant Parkway, Peoria, AZ, offices, you can try to manage your eczema symptoms using these home remedies:

  • Avoid scratching the affected skin and keep your nails short and dull.
  • Use a humidifier when the air is particularly dry.
  • Moisturize your skin regularly with lotions, creams, or ointments without dyes, fragrance, and alcohol.
  • Avoid exposure to airborne allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander.
  • Avoid irritants like manmade fibers or wool, harsh detergents and soaps, and environments or situations that cause sweat.
  • Limit your time bathing and opt for lukewarm or cool water. Use gentle cleansers or washes and pat, don’t rub, when drying your skin.
  • Apply a moisturizing cream right after you dry your skin, preferably when it’s still a bit damp. Opt for moisturizers marketed as barrier repair creams and with ingredients such as ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids. These can help manage your symptoms by repairing your skin barrier.

Remember, you can’t cure eczema, but you can manage your symptoms effectively and heal your skin barrier to prevent flare-ups and further damage. You just need to determine the right combination of home remedies, moisturizers, and medications that will keep your eczema under control.

Need eczema relief now?

Contact Advanced Desert Dermatology by calling (623) 977-6700 to schedule a consultation at either our Thunderbird Rd. or Lake Pleasant Parkway in Peoria, AZ. Dr. Vernon Mackey will assess your symptoms and craft an eczema treatment plan that best fits your needs.

Location

Find us on the map

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Hours of Operation

Monday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Hours of Operation

Monday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed